Sayali Kukday

Dr. Sayali Kukday is a Teaching Professor in the Department of Genetics, Development, and Cell Biology at Iowa State University (ISU). She holds multiple affiliations, including Faculty Adviser for Beta Beta Beta Biological Sciences Honor Society and Vice Chair of the 4-year College Section at the National Association for Biology Teachers (NABT). Her roles also include co-leading the FALCoN working group at the National Institute on Scientific Teaching (NIST) and past leadership in committees such as the University Committee for the Advancement of Women and Gender Equity and the Web Committee of the Society for the Advancement of Biology Education Research (SABER).

Dr. Kukday earned a B.S. in Life Sciences and Biochemistry from K.C. College, Mumbai, India (2005), an M.S. in Biochemistry from The Institute of Science, Mumbai (2007), and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Georgia (2012). She joined ISU in 2013 following postdoctoral and instructor roles at the University of Georgia.

Her research focuses on active learning strategies in STEM education, including collaborative, problem-based, and game-based approaches. She investigates the impact of collaboration on student belonging and equity in undergraduate biology courses. Her work aims to foster inclusive STEM environments that value diverse backgrounds. Dr. Kukday has contributed to peer-reviewed publications on topics ranging from cancer education methodologies to antiracist initiatives in biology education.

Her contributions to academic service include advancing gender equity, women in STEM programs (e.g., WiSE), and promoting evidence-based teaching practices. Though no formal advisees are listed, her leadership roles reflect significant contributions to educational reform and institutional change.