Michelle A. Whaley

Michelle A. Whaley is a Teaching Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Notre Dame, where she has been an influential educator and researcher since 1993. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Notre Dame and a B.S. from Scripps College. Her roles include faculty coordinator of the Undergraduate Research program and the Alumni Mentor program, and she previously served as Assistant Department Chair (2014–2019) and REU Program Director (1999–present).

• Teaching Professor, University of Notre Dame (2011–Present)
• Associate Teaching Professor (2001–2011)
• Assistant Teaching Professor (1993–2000)
• Ph.D., University of Notre Dame
• B.S., Scripps College

Her research centers on the cellular and molecular basis of vision in mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Anopheles gambiae, focusing on rhodopsin regulation, gene expression, and light-evoked behaviors. She uses transgenic Drosophila models to study mosquito genes and collaborates extensively with Dr. Joseph O'Tousa. Her work bridges genetics, neuroscience, and infectious disease research, with strong emphasis on undergraduate involvement.

The recent publications (2012–2022) reflect a sustained focus on visual gene function in mosquitoes, especially rhodopsin dynamics and light-mediated behavior. These studies combine molecular biology, genetics, and neuroethology, contributing to broader efforts in vector-borne disease control. Her educational scholarship includes curriculum reform in introductory biology, promoting inquiry-based and research-integrated learning.

Her scientific honors include:

• Indiana Professor of the Year (2014)
• Edmund P. Joyce, CSC, Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching (2014)
• Arthur Quigley, PhD Award for community service and education (2012)

Michelle Whaley is deeply committed to student mentorship, having advised numerous undergraduate researchers and directed the REU program for over two decades. She teaches research-intensive courses such as the CRISPR Research Experience and Classical and Molecular Genetics Laboratory, and she leads the Graduate Student Teaching Apprenticeship Program. Her educational leadership extends to curriculum development, including co-chairing the committee to reimagine introductory biology and serving as Faculty Fellow at the Institute for Educational Initiatives.

She is actively involved in several educational and research teams, including the Jordan Research Teams and the Molecules to Ecosystems introductory biology initiative, fostering collaborative, interdisciplinary learning environments.