Teresa Thiel

Teresa Thiel is a Professor of Biology and Dean of the Graduate School at the University of Missouri-Saint Louis (UMSL). Previously, she served as interim dean and senior associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Her academic journey includes a PhD in microbiology from Case Western Reserve University and postdoctoral research at Michigan State University's Plant Research Laboratory. She actively teaches undergraduate and graduate courses and contributes to the Biochemistry and Biotechnology Program.

• Education: PhD in Microbiology

Dr. Thiel's research focuses on cyanobacterial genetics, nitrogen fixation, and molecular biology. Her work explores gene regulation in nitrogenase clusters, heterocyst development, and proto-circadian mechanisms in bacteria. She has published extensively on cyanobacterial systems, including gene expression localization and dual nitrogenase systems.

Her recent publications highlight trends in microbial genetics, with emphasis on cyanobacteria's nitrogenase systems, regulatory promoters, and evolutionary timekeeping mechanisms. She maintains an externally funded research program integrating undergraduate and graduate students.

Dr. Thiel has served on university and UM system committees such as the Faculty Senate, Research Board, and Post-tenure Review Committee. She played a key role in establishing the Math Technology Learning Center and mentors students in molecular biology research.