Trenton Agrelius

Trenton Agrelius is an Assistant Teaching Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Notre Dame, where he has been serving since 2022. His academic journey includes prior roles at the University of South Carolina, where he held positions as Instructor of Record, Research Assistant, and Teaching Assistant.

His educational background includes a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (2022) and an M.Sc. in Marine Science (2015), both from the University of South Carolina, and a B.S. in Biological Sciences from Augusta University (2011).

Trenton's research is centered on epigenetics, particularly how environmental cues influence gene expression across generations without altering DNA sequences, using the Daphnia model system. His teaching philosophy emphasizes creativity, engagement, and experiential learning through nontraditional methods such as gameplay and undergraduate research. He believes that failure in the lab is a valuable part of the scientific learning process.

His primary research interests include epigenetics, molecular biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, and phenotypic plasticity. He integrates ecological concepts with molecular mechanisms to help students understand complex biological systems.

Scientific Awards:

• Gerald and Antona Wilson Award, University of South Carolina, 2022
• Jeffrey Barnesdale Memorial Teaching Fellowship, University of South Carolina, 2020
• Incubator for Teaching Innovation, University of South Carolina, 2019–2020

Trenton has been actively involved in teaching innovation and diversity initiatives, having chaired the College of Arts and Sciences Advisory Diversity Committee at UofSC from 2018 to 2020. He is deeply committed to undergraduate research as a vital extension of classroom learning and mentorship.

He has developed pedagogical tools that promote accessibility and deeper understanding of complex biological topics. No recent publications are listed in the provided text.