معرفی
Melanie Jane Decker serves as an Associate Teaching Professor and Director of the Undergraduate Program in the Biology Department at Syracuse University's College of Arts and Sciences. She has taught biochemistry and related courses since 2017, catering to diverse student populations including biology, chemistry, nursing, and health studies majors across multiple institutions.
Her educational qualifications are:
- Ph.D. in Chemistry, Syracuse University (2018)
- M.Phil. in Chemistry, Syracuse University (2013)
- B.Sc. in Forensic Science, Bay Path University (2011)
Dr. Decker's research centers on enzyme structure and substrate recognition dynamics, with emphasis on protein prenylation mechanisms. She integrates biological and chemical principles in curriculum design to foster active learning and critical thinking among students from varied academic backgrounds.
Her scholarly output includes a significant 2020 book chapter on protein prenylation that bridges biochemistry, enzymology, and structural biology. This work examines CaaX protein processing by FTase and GGTase-I enzymes, revealing implications for post-translational modifications and cancer biology pathways.
She received the Laura J. and L. Douglas Meredith Teaching Recognition Award for Early Career Performance (2024-2025) from Syracuse University.
Dr. Decker maintains extensive service commitments:
- Director of Undergraduate Studies, Biology (2024–Present)
- Member, Biology Curriculum Committee (2022–Present)
- Faculty Advisor, Beta Beta Beta Biology Honors Fraternity (2023–Present)
- Academic Coordinator, Hiring Committee for Large Class and TA (2021)
She secured a Visiting Fellowship in Assessment for AP Biology from the College Board in 2024 and participates in CHANcE Professional Development initiatives.
Through Beta Beta Beta leadership, she cultivates undergraduate research engagement and professional development within Syracuse University's biological sciences community.
