Sandra J. Connelly

Sandra J. Connelly serves as a Principal Lecturer in the Thomas H. Gosnell School of Life Sciences within the College of Science at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). Joining RIT in 2007, she teaches foundational biology courses including General Biology, Explorations in Biology, Evolutionary Biology, and Interdisciplinary Biology and Chemistry to students across all RIT colleges.

Her educational background includes a BS from Juniata College, MS from University at Buffalo, and Ph.D. from Miami University of Ohio. Dr. Connelly's research spans three primary areas: UV-induced DNA damage in freshwater organisms, ecotoxicology (particularly examining crumb rubber substrates from artificial athletic fields), and innovative pedagogy for STEM education of non-science majors. Her work integrates molecular ecology with practical applications in environmental assessment and educational accessibility.

Analysis of her publication record reveals consistent research activity focused on freshwater ecosystems, particularly using Daphnia as model organisms to study UV radiation effects, DNA damage and repair mechanisms, and responses to environmental stressors. Her work increasingly incorporates interdisciplinary approaches, connecting biology with chemistry, sustainability, and pedagogy. Recent publications demonstrate growing emphasis on inclusive education methods and accessibility in STEM learning.

• D2L Corporation Brightspace Accessibility Award (2016)
• Online Learning Consortium Effective Practice Award (2015)
• Online Learning Consortium 2015 Sloan-C Effective Practice Award (2015)

Dr. Connelly actively mentors undergraduate researchers through RIT's Biology Research courses, with students participating in her aquatic ecology lab projects examining UV damage, crumb rubber toxicity, and vitamin D3 effects. She collaborates extensively with colleagues across RIT departments including Chemistry and Sustainability, and serves as a panel expert for NASA and NSF. Her grant activities include submissions to the NSF Division of Undergraduate Education focused on improving STEM transitions for deaf and hard-of-hearing students.

The Connelly Lab operates as a collaborative research environment with multiple ongoing projects examining anthropogenic and natural stressors in freshwater systems. Current research includes investigations of DNA damage and repair in extremophiles at Yellowstone National Park (in collaboration with Montana State University), ecotoxicology studies of recycled tire materials, and development of accessible STEM curriculum materials. The lab maintains strong connections with external organizations including NASA, NSF, and various educational associations.