Rosa Da Silva

Rosa Da Silva, PhD, serves as Associate Dean of the Faculty of Science at McMaster University, where she is also a faculty member in the Department of Biology. With a PhD in Cell and Systems Biology from the University of Toronto, she maintains an active research program while contributing significantly to academic leadership and educational innovation.

Her research spans two primary areas: insect physiology (particularly cardiovascular and immune processes in pest insects like the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug and Rhodnius prolixus) and science education research focusing on blended learning methodologies. Dr. Da Silva has developed numerous innovative courses including Sci2M03: Engaging your world-Science for the Global Citizen, LifeSci3L03: Laboratory Methods in Life Sciences, and BIO780: Advanced Microscopy Techniques.

Her recent scholarly work shows a progression from fundamental insect physiology research toward educational scholarship, with publications like 'Blended learning in a biology classroom: Pre‐pandemic insights for post‐pandemic instructional strategies' (2022) reflecting her expertise in pedagogical innovation. Her educational research examines how to effectively integrate technology with traditional teaching methods to enhance student learning.

• best presentation award for long oral presentations (Insect Biotech Conference 2016)
• best presentation award for short oral presentations (Insect Biotech Conference 2016)

Dr. Da Silva has established the Applied Learning Lab for Undergraduate Research Excellence (ALLURE) and the Undergraduate Cell Biology Laboratory, mentoring 5-6 students annually in authentic research experiences. She has successfully secured funding for course development, including $70,000 for her blended learning course. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, active learning, and connecting biological concepts to real-world applications through projects like the Drug Discovery Film Showcase.