Mary Hatcher-Skeers

Mary Hatcher-Skeers is Professor and Vice President for Academic Affairs/Dean of Faculty at Scripps College’s Department of Natural Sciences. She leads the Hatcher-Skeers research group, focusing on biophysical chemistry (NMR studies of DNA/protein dynamics) and inclusive pedagogy research (STEM equity and classroom communities).

Education:

• B.A. Biochemistry and Cell Biology, UC San Diego
• M.S. Chemistry, San Francisco State University
• Ph.D. Physical Chemistry, University of Washington
• NIH Post-doctoral Fellowship, MIT and Brandeis University

Research Interests: Her biophysical work uses NMR/FTIR to analyze biomolecular structure and dynamics in DNA, proteins, and cofactors. Her pedagogy research examines how STEM classroom environments impact student confidence and retention, informed by her roles in faculty development and racial equity initiatives.

Publications (Trends): Her 15 most recent articles (2003–2020) emphasize NMR/spectroscopic methods applied to nucleic acid dynamics, protein conformational studies, and amide rotational barriers, with collaborations across institutions.

Awards:

• NIH Post-doctoral Fellowship

Teaching & Leadership: She teaches undergraduate chemistry courses including Physical Chemistry, Biochemistry, and NMR Spectroscopy, while directing college-wide academic initiatives as Dean of Faculty and Associate Dean for Racial Equity.