Sean Coleman

Sean Coleman is a Professor in the Biology department at Wartburg College, actively leading undergraduate research through the HHMI Science Education Alliance-Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science (SEA-PHAGES) program since at least 2018.

His research integrates bacteriophage discovery and genomic analysis using dual methodologies: in situ (microbiology-based phage isolation with hosts like Microbacterium foliorum and Arthrobacter globiformis) and in silico (bioinformatics-driven genome annotation). This work emphasizes hands-on training in microbial ecology, genomic sequencing, and computational biology for undergraduate students.

Dr. Coleman regularly supervises 4-24 students per semester across courses including BI 211 Genetics, BI 221 Cell Biology, and BIO 1783 Virus Hunters, spanning freshman to senior levels. His structured curriculum includes 1-2 weekly lab sessions (1.5-4.3 hours) with additional open lab hours, fostering skills in phage characterization and genomic analysis.

As an engaged member of the national SEA-PHAGES community, he participates in annual workshops and symposia, contributing to the program's mission of advancing science education through authentic research experiences.