The University of Kansas

World-renowned geneticist now teaching at KU

Thanks to the life sciences boom in Kansas City, a world-renowned geneticist whose research focuses on understanding the causes of certain birth defects is in a KU classroom this fall.

Scott Hawley, a senior scientist with the Stowers Institute for Medical Research in Kansas City, Mo., is teaching a class in the molecular biosciences program at the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park.

Before joining the Stowers Institute and KU, Hawley was a professor of genetics at the University of California-Davis. He also co-wrote The Human Genome: A User’s Guide. Reviewers have praised the book for covering the fundamentals of genetics and examining the potential impact studying the genome can have on our society.

“We need to not lose sight of our humanity, even when teaching hard, rigorous science,” Hawley said.

Hawley is best known for his research on the genetics of meiosis, the process that transmits people’s genes into the next generation. His work concentrates on the cell division that occurs in the germline, the cells of the ovary that produce eggs, and the cells in the testes that produce sperm. He has discovered a number of genes that influence chromosomal crossover events –– or meiotic recombination. Studying such genes may lead to a better understanding of the causes of certain birth defects in humans, such as Down syndrome.

“We are lucky to have such a well-respected researcher and educator teach in our biology program and contribute to the campus’ mission,” said Bob Clark, vice chancellor for the Edwards Campus. “It’s even more exciting that his unique teaching philosophies will engage students so that they take a genuine liking toward a career in the life sciences.”

Since working at Stowers, Hawley has actively sought out teaching opportunities with the assistance of Bill Neaves, CEO and president of Stowers.

“The institute encourages full-time scientists to engage in pro bono teaching at affiliated institutions as long as it doesn’t interfere with the scientist’s research,” said Hawley.
Teaching at the Edwards Campus, it turns out, is a good fit for him, he said.

“By allowing me to teach an early-evening class, I have been given the ideal circumstance of an uninterrupted workday followed by the opportunity to teach and then home to join my family as they sit down for dinner.”

The Edwards Campus molecular biosciences program is an undergraduate degree designed to give working professionals a solid background in genetics, microbiology, cell biology, biochemistry as well as laboratory skills, which will help enhance their professional qualifications. The program began in fall 2001. The campus also offers an undergraduate program in English and 18 graduate programs.

More info: www.edwardscampus.ku.edu