Marina Maclean

Marina Maclean serves as a Teaching Assistant Professor in the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at the University of Nevada, Reno, within the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources (CABNR). She also holds an appointment in the Molecular Biosciences Interdisciplinary Graduate Program, contributing to interdisciplinary graduate education.

Her academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (1987), a Master of Science (2012), and a Doctor of Philosophy (2019), all in relevant scientific disciplines, with the latter two degrees earned at the University of Nevada, Reno.

Dr. MacLean's research program centers on the biochemical and molecular mechanisms underlying insect physiology, with particular emphasis on pheromone production and detoxification pathways in bark beetles. By investigating cytochrome P450 enzymes and related metabolic processes, her work seeks to elucidate insect-environment interactions and inform sustainable strategies for pest management in forest ecosystems.

Analysis of her publication record from 2013 to 2021 reveals a consistent focus on cytochrome P450 enzymes across diverse insect species, including bark beetles, honeybees, and malaria vectors. Her studies span enzyme characterization, metabolic pathway elucidation, and the intersection of detoxification with chemical communication, demonstrating both fundamental biochemical insights and applied relevance to agricultural and public health challenges.

Recognition for her teaching excellence includes:

• CABNR Teacher of the Year (2023)

As an educator, Dr. MacLean coordinates the Biochemistry and Biotechnology Independent Study courses (BCH 280, BCH 480) and the Biotechnology Research course (BIOT 447), providing undergraduate students with hands-on research experiences. She is deeply committed to student success, particularly through her involvement in the NVFit program where she teaches a laboratory course designed to help incoming freshmen develop essential skills and confidence for college-level science.

Her research activities are conducted in laboratory facilities (Room 146D, HMS Building) at the University of Nevada, Reno, where she employs molecular, biochemical, and genomic approaches to study insect systems. While specific lab team composition isn't detailed, her collaborative publications indicate active partnerships with researchers in entomology and biochemistry.