Neena Grover

Neena Grover is a Professor of RNA Biochemistry in the Chemistry & Biochemistry Department at Colorado College. She leads The Grover Lab, where she conducts research on RNA thermodynamics with undergraduate students. Her work focuses on understanding small RNA structural motifs and the role of magnesium ions in stabilizing RNA structures. As an educator, she teaches a range of courses from introductory organic chemistry to specialized topics in RNA and nucleic acid biochemistry, including courses on coronaviruses and HIV-1.

Professor Grover's research interests span RNA biochemistry, nucleic acid thermodynamics, and science education. Her laboratory investigates the sequence requirements and stability of small RNA loop regions, particularly examining how metal ions contribute to RNA structure formation and function. She also explores pedagogical approaches including student-centered teaching, problem-based service learning, and anti-racist teaching methodologies. Her work bridges fundamental RNA research with practical applications, including potential contributions to understanding viral RNA structures like those in coronaviruses.

Dr. Grover's scholarly output demonstrates a dual focus on RNA biochemistry and science education. Her recent publications cover thermodynamic studies of various RNA structures while also addressing cultural structures in biology education and inclusive teaching practices. This combination reflects her commitment to both advancing scientific knowledge and improving how science is taught and experienced by diverse student populations.

Among her professional recognitions, Dr. Grover serves as Editor of CourseSource, an evidence-based undergraduate teaching resource for the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (2016-present), and as an Editorial Board Member for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education. Her 2011 work was highlighted in the CUR Undergraduate Research Highlights.

Professor Grover actively mentors undergraduate researchers, with recent students including Piper Catlin, Quinn Eaheart, Abbott Gifford, Adrian Larkspur, and Abe Rosenthal. Many of her publications feature undergraduate co-authors, demonstrating her commitment to involving students in meaningful research. She founded and advises the Student Club for Science Outreach (CC Science Outreach), extending her educational impact beyond the classroom through community engagement and science communication initiatives.

The Grover Lab utilizes multiple biophysical techniques including thermal denaturation, isothermal calorimetry, fluorescence spectroscopy, and native PAGE to characterize RNA structures. The lab is expanding its capabilities with circular dichroism and Raman spectroscopy. Current research includes projects related to coronavirus RNA structures and potential RNA-based inhibitors, connecting fundamental research to contemporary health challenges while training the next generation of scientists.