UCI School of Biological Sciences - 2021 Dean's Report

2021 DEAN’S REPORT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

06 10 14

STUDENTS COMMENCEMENT RESEARCH

JANUARY 9 The World Health Organization (WHO) announces the identification of a novel coronavirus in Wuhan, China.

FEBRUARY 3 The Trump administration declares a public health emergency three days after WHO declares a global health emergency.

MARCH 11 The coronavirus health emergency is declared a pandemic by WHO.

MARCH 25 The U.S. Senate passes the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act.

JUNE 10 Confirmed COVID-19 cases reach the 2 million mark in the U.S.

Our brains are wired to thrive on human connection and stimulation. Keeping our minds sound as social distancing restrictions begin to lift has become an important consideration for us all.

28 32 40 44

FACULTY

JANUARY 21 The first U.S. resident was confirmed to have COVID-19 after returning from Wuhan a few days earlier.

SCHOOL LEADERSHIP GET INVOLVED GIVING

Timeline sources include the AJMC, CDC, UCI and WHO. Disclaimer: This report contains photographs of people in groups that were taken prior to California’s stay-at-home order.

MARCH 19 California Governor Gavin Newsom issues a stay-at-home order for the entire state.

APRIL 6 The UC system launches a new grant program to support COVID-19 research.

JULY 14 Moderna releases phase 1 clinical trial data on the efficacy of its COVID-19 vaccine candidate.

AUGUST 17 COVID-19 established as the thirdleading cause of death in the U.S.

DECEMBER 11 & 18 The U.S. FDA announces that the COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna have received emergency use authorization.

SEPTEMBER 12 Pfizer-BioNTech announces that they have begun their expanded phase 3 clinical trials on their COVID-19 vaccine.

The health of our minds and bodies depends on the planet’s air, water, soil, flora and fauna. If the well-being of the world around us declines, so will our individual health, making the emergence and spread of disease more likely.

The mind thrives in tandem with the body. Better physical health makes better brain health more likely and helps us fight off all manner of infections.

JULY 2 Several states begin reversing their reopening plans.

AUGUST 24 UCI begins daily symptoms check screenings for all employees.

SEPTEMBER 28 The global death toll from COVID-19 passes 1 million.

OCTOBER 22 The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves the drug remdesivir for treatment of COVID-19.

DECEMBER 16 UCI Health Medical Center administers its first doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.

DECEMBER 29 The first U.S. case of a new COVID-19 variant is identified in a Colorado patient.

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

02 03

MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN

WHAT WE HAVE LEARNED. WHAT WE ARE ACHIEVING. WHAT WE MUST DO NEXT. Dear Colleagues and Friends, Since becoming the UCI School of Biological Sciences dean over

Building upon our existing Enhanced Academic Success Experience

seven years ago, I have worked to demonstrate to the public that

initiative (EASE) and Minority Science Programs, the deanship ensures

biology touches everyone’s life. COVID-19 has proven this truth

action and advocacy throughout our school.

more powerfully than my words ever could. The light now shining at the end of the long tunnel has been fueled by the tireless efforts of research biologists at UCI BioSci working in concert with life scientists worldwide.

Our researchers’ achievements and our commitment to social justice are central to BioSci’s stature as a world-class institution. Our students’ talents, drive and passion for the life sciences are crucial as well. Their enthusiastic participation has made virtual learning a success. This

On the following pages, you will find lessons learned from the

process has led our faculty to incorporate new technologies and

pandemic and how discoveries here are helping to change its

practices into their teaching that are quickly becoming integral to the

course. From vaccines, variants and scientific models for

educational experience.

developing treatments to an investigation into “long-haul COVID,” our scientists continue to uncover new knowledge for vanquishing the global catastrophe.

BioSci has accomplished an incredible amount over the past year.

However, there is much more to do. COVID-19 variants, vaccine hesitancy and global vaccination supply issues are among the factors

In this report, you will also learn more about our new associate

extending the pandemic. This virus’s rapid spread and destruction

deanship of diversity, equity and inclusion. The establishment of

raise the specter that other kinds of outbreaks could lay siege in

this position i s a milestone in our determination to make biological

coming years, especially as humans continue to encroach on animal

education and careers accessible to all.

habitats. Climate change rages on, with the recent wildfires here

in Southern California as just one example of the devastation.

And diseases such as Alzheimer’s that were recognized as crises before the pandemic still urgently require solutions.

The achievements highlighted in this Dean’s Report demonstrate that biologists hold the keys to transforming what lies ahead.

However, increased investment in basic life sciences research is essential for continued progress. Please join us in advocating for biology. Share this report with others and talk with them about why the life sciences matter. Consider donating to further the work of our school. Urge lawmakers to support investment in biological research. By working together on behalf of biology, we can ensure a brilliant future for our minds, bodies and world.

Stay Healthy,

Frank M. LaFerla, PhD Dean, UCI School of Biological Sciences

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

04 05

“We strive to develop and implement strategies to remove embedded inequities from mindsets, values and practices, and encourage the adoption of broader perspectives on judgments of faculty and student achievement and academic merit.

We are also evidence and data-driven (both quantitative and qualitative) and uphold the principles of transparency and accountability.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION Not only are we committed to ensuring an inclusive environment for everyone to thrive, but we are also working to build a community of allies and partners who can lead by example and carry on the important and hard work of institutional transformation.”

– Michael Yassa, PhD Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Professor, Neurobiology and Behavior

S T U DE N T S

NEW ASSOCIATE DEANSHIP FURTHERS COMMITMENT TO SOCIAL JUSTICE COVID-19 and the surge in demand for social justice were wake-up calls for institutions, ones that have forever defined 2020 in the collective psyche.

The School of Biological Sciences was already well-armed to help combat the pandemic through research underway and new inquiries rapidly initiated.

To address the growing call for social reform, BioSci decided to develop a comprehensive approach to improving institutional policies and practices. In October 2020, the school established the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, or ODEI, headed by a new associate dean dedicated to this crucial issue.

Prof. Michael Yassa

Professor Michael Yassa was appointed as the inaugural associate dean of diversity, equity and inclusion. An accomplished neuroscientist who is well-known and respected throughout UCI and the field, Professor Yassa has a history of commitment to inclusive excellence. He has worked with university leadership on initiatives to improve campus culture, develop diversity training and faculty hiring programs, and support student outreach and recruitment.

Professor Yassa’s responsibilities in this new role are many and compelling. They include overseeing the development of a BioSci comprehensive DEI strategic plan and advising school leadership on related issues. He also supervises the school’s Minority Science Programs (MSP) and develops new activities to support the success of faculty, staff and students. His office has already launched several new programs and initiatives, including the Promoting Inclusion in the Student Experience (PROMISE) task force, a schoolwide climate council, a comprehensive undergraduate wellness survey and several small grant mechanisms to reward leadership in diversity and inclusion efforts. Most recently, Professor Yassa welcomed to his team Dr. Raven Baxter as director of diversity initiatives. Dr. Baxter

Dr. Raven Baxter

has a background in molecular biology, science education and science communication. Her role

COMMUNITY

DIVERSITY IMPLICIT BIAS SOCIAL TRANSPARENCYJUSTICE ACCOUNTABILITY

VALUES

WELLNESS

learning, teaching and working environments within the school.

RACISM

will focus on building strong communities to enhance and support innovative and diverse science

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

06 07

S T UDENT S

PANDEMIC’S REMOTE LEARNING IS SHAPING INSTRUCTION FOR THE FUTURE As the world moves toward a new normal, many institutions are looking at whether changes they made during the pandemic could enrich in an ongoing way the communities they serve. At the School of Biological Sciences, we are closely examining this question as part of our responsibility to provide the best possible education.

When safety restrictions were put in place, we had

over Zoom outside of assigned class times and

to rapidly change how we teach our students. Zoom,

provided online resources to aid in learning. We

YouTube and other digital tools replaced in-person

expect the use of both online instruction techniques to

classes in a matter of days. This shift prompted faculty to

continue past the pandemic and complement traditional

rethink their instructional design and implement changes

in-person teaching.

INCLUSION

that help students sustain success while learning virtually.

Prof. Raju Metherate

This approach allowed them to think much more deeply

Besides refashioning instruction methods, faculty also

than possible during a 1-hour exam. On exam day,

Transition to remote teaching provided faculty the choice

had to change how they measured student achievement

students received questions based on the data, which

of offering synchronous or asynchronous instruction.

during the pandemic. With testing moving online, some

they answered individually. This format allowed for

In synchronous instruction, all students log in for live

faculty adopted software tools to help proctor exams,

collaborative learning and critical thinking while also

teaching at scheduled times, which allows for in-class

for example, using webcams to monitor students during

permitting the individual assessment of each student.

discussion but requires reliable, high-speed internet

exams. However, proctoring software has disadvantages,

for both students and instructors. On the other hand,

such as requiring reliable high-speed internet, and was

asynchronous instruction enables students to work

not widely used within BioSci. Moreover, some faculty

at their own pace within the constraints of their home

wish to encourage collaborative work even as they

internet environment; however, it limits interactions

need to assess individual student performance. BioSci

among students and faculty. Our faculty used different

faculty created novel solutions to this dilemma. Molecular

approaches, including a combination of synchronous

Biology and Biochemistry Associate Professor of Teaching

and asynchronous instruction. For example, instead

Pavan Kadandale gave his students descriptions of a

of the traditional 50-minute lecture, Molecular Biology

hypothetical experiment with made-up data several days

and Behavior Professor of Teaching Brian Sato opted

before each exam. They were not, however, given any

for a series of short (5-15 minute) videos to “scaffold”

questions. Students were encouraged to collaborate in

learning, created student groups that could interact

groups to analyze the data and apply concepts learned in class.

ASYNCHRONOUS

SYNCHRONOUS

SOCIAL DISTANCING

REMOTE LEARNING EDUCATION

STUDENTS

ZOOM

DIVERSITY

PANDEMIC VIRTUAL

Educational institutions worldwide will need to balance distance instruction with safe school reopening. Many aspects of the learning process at BioSci may never go back to how they were before the pandemic. However, during the lockdown, our innovative faculty created new tools and teaching strategies that will help increase student success at the school and beyond.

– Raju Metherate, PhD Associate Dean of Undergraduate Education Professor, Neurobiology and Behavior

C

T

COMMITMENT

TO EDUCATION

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

08 09

C O MMENCEM ENT

SPEAKER URGES CLASS OF 2021 TO CHANGE THE WORLD

Believe in yourself. Help others. Commit to ending systemic racism. This call to BioSci’s Class of 2021 came from commencement speaker Angeline Dukes, MSc., a neuroscience PhD candidate at the school. Dukes drew from her own life and experience in founding the international organization, Black in Neuro, to inspire the audience.

A first-generation college graduate and daughter of Trinidadian and Haitian immigrants “who worked so hard for the little that we had,” Dukes set an early goal of becoming a pediatrician. She later realized the choice wouldn’t make her happy, but found it hard to change direction because she didn’t want to disappoint her family. Dukes gained a new perspective when she discovered a passion for teaching and mentoring and decided she wanted to be a college professor. “It is okay to try different things and take the time to figure out what makes you happy,” she said.

As she achieved success in higher education, she struggled with impostor syndrome, even thinking her acceptance call from graduate school was a mistake. “That’s how much I doubted that anyone who looked like me and came from my background belonged in those spaces,” Dukes said. She told the Class of 2021 that “You have every right to be here, to be in grad school or med school or the workplace that you join.” Dukes called on the graduates to “be a leader and changemaker … to dismantle systemic racism and to make sure there is a diverse representation of all groups at every new height you reach.”

Dukes, who plans to obtain her PhD in 2022, has often been “the only Black person and

Angeline Dukes

sometimes the only woman in the room” in labs, seminars and conferences. She has used this position to advocate for Black people and other underrepresented groups.

“The biggest difference that you can make

A tweet she sent out following the 2020 police killings of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor

in this world is by being true to yourself

galvanized response worldwide. It led her to found

and your dreams, because that is what

and guidance for Black scholars and professionals

will inspire others to do the same.”

– Angeline Dukes, MSc., President, Black in Neuro

Black in Neuro to provide mentorship, community in neuroscience-related fields. The organization enables members “to find comfort amidst our shared trauma and to have support in fighting injustice and systemic racism at our institutions,” said Dukes, who is its president.

As for the new graduates moving forward, “I hope you take the time to reach back and pull someone else up with you,” Dukes said. “Be a mentor. You can do it now. You are in a position to change the world for the better.”

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

10 11

S TU DE N T F E ATU RE

IF YOU BELIEVE,

YOU CAN DO IT SAYS BIOSCI’S YOUNGEST 2021 GRAD

Like many 2021 School of Biological Sciences graduates, Kylie Munson is taking the MCATs and applying to medical school. She is also planning to put her skills and energy to good use by volunteering. Unlike the others in her class, though, Munson is 15 years old.

Her fast journey to a bachelor of science in biology began at a young age. As soon as she could read, she was drawn toward books and other material on the life sciences. When she was 11, the Santa Clarita resident added part-time studies at Los Angeles Mission College to her Orange County Sage Oak High School coursework. After earning an associate degree and graduating from high school concurrently, she enrolled in UCI BioSci at the age of 13!

“I liked the overall vibe at UCI,” she said of her decision to become an Anteater.

“It felt more like a community than other universities I considered.” A competitive cheerleader for many years, Munson joined the UCI Spirit Squad. During her time on campus, the age gap between her and other students was never an issue. “I didn’t really notice it. I didn’t feel very different from everyone else.

I’ve always been around older people.”

She relished her academic experience at BioSci. “It was demanding and a lot of work,” she said. “But if you put in the work, you will be successful.”

Biochemistry was among her favorite subjects and she particularly enjoyed organic chemistry. Munson weathered the transition when the pandemic necessitated shifting from in-person courses to online learning, but says she preferred being in the classroom.

Receiving her BioSci diploma “is a huge accomplishment for me,” she said.

She hopes her achievement can inspire others to pursue their dreams. “If you believe in yourself, you can do it.”

While she is busy working toward the next phase of her life, Munson does have a short-term goal. “I want to spend some time hanging out with my friends and going to the beach. I’d like to be a teenager for a while.”

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

12 13

RESEAR CH

INNOVATIVE SCIENCE POWERS COVID-19 VACCINES The year 2020 will be ingrained in the American psyche for decades to come. The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the causal agent of COVID-19, caught the world’s population off guard. With no previous immunity to the virus, it quickly spread throughout the United States and impacted millions of American lives. For most of the year, the primary means of slowing the virus’s spread were mitigation strategies, physical barriers, social distancing and wearing masks. While capable, these methods have their limits and require continued compliance by most of the population to be highly effective.

The best way to combat an emerging infectious disease is by vaccinating the public. With the current pandemic, scientists quickly launched an intensive effort to develop a vaccine. Thanks to bioengineering advances, scientific and healthcare professionals created and safely tested vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 in record time. But how exactly do the vaccinations fight contagious diseases like COVID-19?

Viruses and other pathogens can invade the body and trigger an immune response. The body’s white blood cells and antibodies are particularly important in developing a targeted immune response to specific pathogens like SARS-CoV-2. When the body encounters a pathogen for the first time, the non-specific immune response will attack and kill a percentage of the pathogen. Once dispatched, the body’s next step consists of taking parts of the pathogen, called antigens, and utilizing them to help mount a more robust and targeted immune response.

After the infection, the immune system remembers the pathogen and responds much quicker to a second encounter, a process called immunological memory.

However, this process is complex and potentially causes severe illness or death. Vaccines are crucial because they mimic an infection’s early steps without causing disease.

The process primes our white blood cells to develop immunological memory and fight future encounters.

Prof. Ilhem Messaoudi

There are several available methods to create a vaccine.

The three COVID-19 vaccines that have received emergency use authorization (EUA) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) were the results of novel technologies.

The first two vaccines that garnered EUA from the FDA were from Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech. Both products are also the first approved messenger RNA- (mRNA) based vaccines. These vaccines were developed using new technology that circumvents the need for placing a weakened or inactivated virus into the body. The mRNA from the vaccine can enter a host cell and serve as a template for the cell to make a protein fragment. In the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines, the protein fragment is from the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein, a portion that helps the virus enter host cells. The cells that receive the mRNA and display part of the S protein will prime the immune system to remember the protein and protect against a future infection from SARS-CoV-2.

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine, the third to obtain EUA, was devised through what is called non-replicating viral vector technology. This process delivers genetic material into host cells without making new viral particles. J & J uses an adenovirus vector that has been modified to include the SARS-CoV-2 S protein. As with the other two vaccines, it prepares the immune system for any future SARS-CoV-2 encounter.

There are additional COVID-19 vaccines on the horizon that utilize new or traditional methods of development.

Nevertheless, future vaccine candidates and the current FDA-approved vaccines may need to be modified to counter the growing emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants.

In viral outbreaks, the genomes of viruses mutate as they spread from person to person, and this phenomenon is occurring with SARS-CoV-2. Some of these alterations make it more transmissible, which has been the case for several currently being tracked in the U.S. The impact of these COVID-19 vaccines has been clear. As more Americans have gotten vaccinated, hospitalizations and deaths have dropped nationwide. Vaccinations were vital for fighting many diseases throughout the 20th century and are proving their power now during the pandemic. We are thankful for the hardworking people who save lives and make history by developing and testing COVID-19 vaccines. Their work is not yet complete, but it remains of great importance.

– Ilhem Messaoudi, PhD Director, Center for Virus Research Professor, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry

PANDEMIC

IMMUNE RESPONSE

RNA VACCINE

VIRUS

INFECTION

COVID-19

TRANSMISSIBLE1514

MRNA

SARS-COV-2

FDA

SPIKE PROTEIN ANTIGENS BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

THE MANY FACES OF SARS-COV-2 AND COVID-19

In January 2020, the first cases of COVID-19 were reported in the United States. Since that time, SARS-CoV-2, the viral agent that causes COVID-19, has spread throughout the country, afflicting over 33 million people and resulting in over 600,000 deaths. Nevertheless, the spread of the virus has begun to diminish thanks to a combination of mitigating strategies, immunity and vaccination. While the fight against COVID-19 has taken a turn for the better, the virus’s emerging variants may continue to pose a significant risk to our nation’s public health. One of them is the Delta variant which arose in India and has spread rapidly to every continent. This viral variant is characterized by a promiscuous rate of transmission among non-immunized individuals and rapid dominance as the most frequently occurring virus. Full immunization with the RNA vaccines or the one-shot adenovirus-based Johnson and Johnson vaccine has been reported to protect against the Delta variant; however, states with a low incidence of vaccination in the U.S. have shown a high prevalence of this virus.

Prof. Michael Buchmeier

SARS-CoV-2 is a member of the coronavirus family

the first response against pathogens. Regardless

of viruses. Coronaviruses can infect a multitude of

of the mechanism, the mutations that offer an

animal species and cause illness in multiple organ

advantage in replicative efficiency become dominant.

systems, particularly the respiratory system. Once an

More virulent viral variants have shown up in every

infection occurs within a host, the virus replicates and

U.S. state, even as others have originated in other

generates numerous copies of itself to infect other

countries. Once a new variant emerges in a particular

potential hosts. During this replication phase, the

geographical location, it becomes the dominant strain

virus acquires changes in its genome due to random

in that area and may spread to other areas.

mutations. When enough mutations occur in the right places, a new variant of the virus emerges.

The emergence of new viral variants during an outbreak is not uncommon; no outbreak remains static over time. As a virus propagates from person to person, some variants become better at infecting hosts, while others remain inconsequential. Many factors determine whether or not a mutated virus becomes more virulent. For example, the altered virus could better infect cells or avoid the host’s immune system, or disable the innate response,

There are several variants of SARS-CoV-2 that scientists and clinicians are tracking in the U.S. These variants include: • Brazil (P.1). First reported in four individuals in Japan who had returned from a trip to Brazil.

• California (B.1.427).

• South Africa (B.1.351).

• U.K. (B.1.1.7). First identified in the United Kingdom.

RE S E ARCH

Each of these four variants shares a common trait: they

COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and

Viruses mutate as they move from host to host,

all contain mutations in a unique part of the SARS-

Johnson & Johnson all target the S protein sequence from

and mutations occur due to the error-borne nature

CoV-2 virus known as the spike protein. The spike (S)

the original viral line first isolated in China. A big question

of RNA replication. The world was bound to

protein is a glycosylated protein that projects from

facing scientists and clinicians is whether the vaccines are

encounter new variants of the virus in time. Now

the surface of coronaviruses. The S protein allows the

effective against emerging mutations that contain slight

that we have, we must continue to remain vigilant

virus to bind to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2

alterations in their S protein. Some preliminary data suggest

in tracking mutations of the virus and steadfast

(ACE2) receptor on host cells and mediate viral entry.

that the vaccines offer some protection against the variants;

in implementing our safety protocols. Vaccine

The four variants have different mutations associated

however, more studies are needed before any definitive

manufacturers have already begun testing booster

with the S protein. Some help the virus better avoid the

conclusions can be made. Regardless of the degree of

shot safety to help combat the SARS-CoV-2

body’s immune response, while others may help it bind

their current effectiveness against the variants, the fact that

variants, and modified versions of the vaccines can

to ACE2. Additional research could determine how the

the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are based on

be quickly generated if needed. This could be the

mutations help the virus spread more efficiently.

messenger RNA technology means that those vaccines will

light at the end of the dark pandemic tunnel or the

be easier to adapt to genetic changes within the virus.

next round in our battle with this formidable virus.

virus. The protein helps define the host species, the

SARS-CoV-2 spread throughout the world in less than

– Michael Buchmeier, PhD

receptor on host cells and the specific binding sites

a year and infected millions before mutating into a more

on the host cell receptor; therefore, it represents a

transmissible disease. Viruses have no conscience, no

primary target for COVID-19 therapeutics and immune

malevolent conspiracy other than to survive the next

responses. Consequently, the available U.S. Food and

cycle of replication. This is the essence of the cycle of

Drug Administration (FDA) emergency use authorized

a pandemic.

Professor, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Professor, Division of Infectious Diseases

ANTIBODIES

The S protein is critical for the proper function of the

COVID

RNA VACCINE

VIRAL VARIANT

DELTA

SPIKE PROTEIN

SARS-COV-21617

MUTATIONS DOMINANT

STRAIN

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

RESEARCH – M IN D

PENETRATING LONG COVID’S BRAIN FOG

While most people with COVID-19 get better within two to three weeks, it has become clear that a number experience lingering symptoms. The condition is known as “post-acute COVID-19 syndrome” or “long COVID,” referring to issues that manifest more than four weeks after patients have recovered from their initial diagnosis. UCI researchers are investigating this emerging phenomenon, which can have neurological implications.

COVID-19, shorthand for coronavirus disease 2019, is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, or SARS-CoV-2. When the virus infects people, it enters cells through a receptor called ACE2, short for angiotensin-converting enzyme 2. This receptor is prevalent throughout the body, which is likely why SARS-CoV-2 can trigger a diverse array of symptoms. Common ones are fever, cough, fatigue, loss of smell, nausea and diarrhea that appear within two to 14 days after infection.

Long COVID also produces various symptoms, and since the start of 2021, clinicians and scientists across the country have ramped up the number of studies conducted on the phenomenon. Initial studies on long COVID suggested that as many as 54% of mild COVID-19 patients have persistent symptoms two to four months following initial recovery. A separate survey of 100 patients found that 85% of those not hospitalized reported long-term neurologic effects. These symptoms include depression, anxiety and “brain fog,” a term many use to describe sluggish thinking and trouble concentrating.

Prof. Thomas Lane

CORONAVIRUS

INFECTION

DEPRESSION TRANSMISSION LINGERING SYMPTOMS

EXHAUSTION

FEVER

CHRONIC FATIGUE CNS INFECTION LONG HAULERS

RELIEF HEALTH

NEUROLOGICAL

Faculty including Neurobiology and Behavior Chancellor’s Professor Thomas Lane are working to uncover what causes this phenomenon. As a first step, he is teaming with other UCI faculty to develop mouse models of the disease. His lab has worked with mice for more than 20 years to study the effects of coronaviruses on neurological health, experience that is invaluable in tackling this issue.

The Lane lab’s COVID-19 experiments are in the early stages, but preliminary data show the SARSCoV-2 virus is capable of replicating in human neurons and possibly other cells of the central nervous system. Their research will determine how long the virus can persist in the brain and how the immune system responds to the infection.

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

18 19

CORONAVIRUS

GENE CRISPR

DISEASE

ACE2 RECEPTOR MOUSE MODEL SARS-COV-2 COVID-19 VIRUS GENETICALLY ENGINEERED

RE S E ARCH – B O DY

Prof. Grant MacGregor

BUILDING A BETTER MOUSE MODEL TO UNDERSTAND SARS-COV-2 COVID-19 has profoundly affected humanity both through its severe toll and its rapid spread. As it emerged, researchers quickly began developing animal models to help uncover its mechanisms and fight the symptoms.

Scientists from the UCI School of Biological Sciences and the UCI School of Medicine are working together on this effort, which is crucial to understand how SARS-CoV-2 causes COVID-19.

For over a century, the use of animal models has led to significant advances in our understanding and treatment of human disease. Many animal species share a remarkable similarity to humans, making them suitable for studying a wide range of pathologies. The models can help scientists understand the processes that cause disease and develop treatments.

The UCI team is a collaboration between Developmental and Cell Biology Professor Grant MacGregor, Neurobiology and

Prof. Kim Green

Behavior Professor Kim Green, Neurobiology and Behavior Chancellor’s Professor Thomas Lane and Ophthalmology Professor Eric Pearlman. Their research teams are working to produce mice with a humanized version of the receptor ACE2 (hACE2), which is short for angiotensin-converting enzyme 2.

As with previous SARS infections, the SARS-CoV-2 virus binds to the ACE2 receptor to enter human cells to cause COVID-19.

Their work is significant because existing mouse models available to scientists to investigate SARS-CoV-2 disease produce much higher and non-physiological amounts of hACE2 in different organs, which can affect the outcomes and interpretations of

Prof. Thomas Lane

SARS-CoV-2 experiments.

The BioSci/School of Medicine team is generating a genetically engineered mouse model that produces human ACE2 at a level, and in organs, that is more consistent with humans. The researchers have also used CRISPR to eliminate the gene making the native mouse ACE2 receptor, so it does not interfere with research results.

Once completed, the new model is expected to be a valuable tool for scientists investigating mechanisms of COVID-19’s complex disease outcomes as well as future SARS outbreaks.

Prof. Eric Pearlman

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

20 21

RESEAR CH – BODY

COVID-19 TREATMENT RESEARCH BLOSSOMS FROM PLANTS THAT PREY They have a fearsome reputation, but they are contributing to the battle against COVID-19. Carnivorous plants have inspired a group of UCI scientists to conduct promising research into treatments for people with the disease.

Their effort began in March 2020 when the pandemic forced UCI scientists to close their laboratories and halt all but the most critical experiments. “Around the time that we were thinking of how to shut things down safely, I began to consider how we could get involved in the fight against the virus,” said Rachel Martin, professor of chemistry and molecular biology & biochemistry, who is leading the research team.

As a chemist, she studies the structures of molecules and how they interact.

A key goal in her lab is to investigate unique proteins known as enzymes that speed up biochemical reactions. The proteases, which are common throughout nature and break apart other proteins, are a class of enzymes that have been of particular interest.

Before the lockdown, Professor Martin’s lab was researching proteases known as cysteine proteases in carnivorous plants. “I realized they might have some relevance because the COVID-19 virus also uses a cysteine protease,” she said.

“That realization was the inspiration to start the project.”

Prof. Rachel Martin

Her lab began a new collaborative effort to study the protease of SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19. The first step was investigating emerging mutations in the virus protease called MPro, which stands for main protease. The mutations help scientists understand how the MPro changes over time, knowledge that influences how to design drugs to target it. A detailed publication about this phase of the project appeared in fall 2020 with UCI undergraduate T.J. Cross as lead author.

The lab is now making the MPro and subjecting it to various inhibitory compounds to see how well they can block its function. “Inhibiting the function of a viral protease is a strategy that has already been used successfully against HIV,” says Professor Martin. “Protease inhibitors are the class of drugs that have played a critical role in making HIV a manageable chronic disease rather than a fatal one.”

As the team continues the arduous but necessary experiments testing potential inhibitory compounds, they are also analyzing several of the enzyme’s other properties. Marquise Crosby, a molecular biology & biochemistry graduate student in Martin’s lab, has led this portion of the project.

Professor Martin and her collaborators have made rapid progress toward testing

MAIN PROTEASE

BIOINFORMATICS

compounds in cell culture that could also protect against emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants.

INHIBITORY COMPOUNDS

VIRUS

STRUCTURE

ENZYME

POLYPROTEIN MUTATIONS CARNIVOROUS PLANTS THERAPEUTICS CORONAVIRUS

MOLECULAR MODELING

SUBSTRATE

MIMETIC

COLLABORATION

Additional Martin lab researchers who contributed to this work were Marc Sprague-Piercy, Gemma Takahashi, Brenna Norton-Baker, Vesta Farahmand and Fatemeh Safizadeh. Other UCI collaborators included Adam Kreutzer, Liz Diessner, Zixiao Zong, Professor James Nowick and Chancellor’s Professor Carter Butts.

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

22 23

PANDEMIC DOESN’T STOP STUDENTS’ ENVIRONMENTAL FIGHT While COVID-19 has dominated public awareness over the past year and a half, climate change, pollution, invasive species, fire and more continue to threaten the world’s future. Fortunately, a group of graduate students could carry out critical environmental investigations despite pandemic protocols limiting much scientific activity at UCI in 2020. This spring, they reported on their work and experiences in conducting research during the global outbreak.

Days after California Governor Gavin Newsom declared the March 2020 stay-at-home order, UCI leadership began releasing guidelines governing how scientists could perform critical research in the face of limited lab access. A variety of ecological and environmental studies were able to continue because they were taking place in various field locations rather than on campus.

Prof. Steven Allison

RIDGE TO REEF

Phoebe Dawkins

Ariane Jong

Ashley Green

David Banuelas

RE S E ARCH – WO RLD

Twelve months later, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Professor Steven Allison, director of the Ridge to Reef Graduate Training Program, moderated a panel by students conducting those research projects. Professor Allison lauded their determination, saying, “They know their work is so important that it has to go on despite the challenges from the pandemic.”

Participating were Ecology and Evolutionary Biology graduate students David Banuelas and Phoebe Dawkins, and Ashley Green and Ariane Jong from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. They presented summaries of their investigations, including; • Examining how the increase in Southern California fires is affecting the region’s flood risk.

• Exploring whether restoring fungi to previously-logged forests can help redwoods there grow taller.

• Developing a new technique called “green gravel” to rebuild the California coast’s kelp forests, which have shrunk by 90 percent.

• Improving COVID-19 detection in the region’s wastewaters to track disease trends.

There are many ways the public can help protect the natural world, the students said. They include cutting down on single-use plastics, properly disposing of waste, learning more about one’s own flood risk and supporting environmental non-profit organizations.

In conducting their research, the panel members partnered with various community agencies and groups, including the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, Newport Bay Conservancy, Irvine Ranch Water District and Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County.

Performing field research as the pandemic got underway did produce some hurdles, the presenters said. Maintaining social distancing was a challenge, and it was difficult to keep track of the many safety recommendations from local, state and federal agencies. However, with their talents, energy and dedication to the environment, the students discovered important insights while advancing their educations.

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

24 25

R ESEAR CH - WORLD

CRUCIAL NEW RESEARCH QUESTIONS RISE FROM WILDFIRE ASHES Fires commanded headlines and wreaked destruction across California in 2020. Flames devastated the Silverado Canyon area of Orange County, where multiple UCI scientists were conducting research. But from the ashes, UCI School of Biological Sciences experts are already developing vital new lines of inquiry into land conservation, climate change and more. According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, more than 9,900 fires ravaged over 4.2 million acres of California land in 2020.

BioSci is home to the Center of Environmental Biology (CEB). Its worldrenowned faculty tackle questions across disciplines, including genomics, comparative physiology, microbiology and climate change. BioSci scientists have partnered with local institutions such as the Irvine Ranch Conservancy to conduct conservation and restoration efforts throughout the county, including Loma Ridge and Bee Canyon.

The area has a long history of drought and fire damage, leading to the influx of non-native plant species. Before the flames that tore through in October, November and December of 2020, BioSci ecologists and their external collaborators were working on projects introducing native plants to help restore Silverado Canyon.

Following those fires, CEB scientist Dr. Sarah Kimball took a group of students to survey the impact. They found that the restoration sites had more native species diversity after the fires than the control, unrestored and

CALIFORNIA

WILDFIRES

degraded sites. Hopefully, the continued cooperation between university

SILVERADO

ecologists and local conservationists will mitigate some of the land

CONSERVATION PLANTS LOMA

degradation that future fires may cause.

CANYON ECOLOGISTS

DROUGHTCHANGE ENVIRONMENTAL BIOLOGY CLIMATE NATIVE SPECIES RESTORATION RIDGE

RE S E ARCH – WO RLD

Dr. Sarah Kimball

BioSci scientists were also using the area to investigate climate change. The fires destroyed research sites for Professors Steven Allison, Jennifer Martiny and Kathleen Treseder, as well as CEB staff Moises Perea-Vega, Julie Coffey and Priscilla Ta. All of them quickly swung into action to move forward from the disaster with new lines of investigation. Along with Dr. Kimball and some exceptional student researchers, the team has begun studying how drought conditions at various sites shaped the fire damage.

Some initial data obtained by CEB researchers suggest that drought sites burned colder than well-watered locations, likely because the dry areas had less fuel to power the flames. This information informs how weather and climate influence fire severity.

With no end in sight to cycles of extreme climate conditions such as drought and fires, future Silverado Canyon research sites will undoubtedly be affected. While restoring plants can offer some protection, BioSci scientists have collected data showing that more frequent fires will hinder those efforts.

Recognizing this challenge, our biologists are adapting their research questions in important and creative ways. However, institutions funding the investigations may not be as fast to catch up, potentially jeopardizing the ability to learn more about this urgent issue facing Orange County, California and the world.

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

26 27

2020-2021 NEW FACULTY

Assistant Professor Molecular Biology and Biochemistry

Assistant Professor Developmental and Cell Biology Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

Assistant Professor of Teaching Developmental and Cell Biology

Star Lee, PhD

Christopher Martinez, PhD Assistant Professor Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

Assistant Professor Molecular Biology and Biochemistry

Professor Halbrook’s research focuses on combining animal models and primary cell cultures to target crosstalk interactions among cell populations found in pancreatic cancer. These techniques have led to seminal findings describing mechanisms of metabolic crosstalk with functional consequences on tumor growth, chemoresistance, and immune suppression. His group is currently working to define how interactions in the primary vs. metastatic tumor niche contribute to immune suppression, investigate the role of metabolism in supporting cancer cell proliferation and therapy resistance, and determine links between cellular plasticity and inflammation responsible for driving chronic pancreatic disease and tissue regeneration.

Our genome contains millions of regulatory switches called enhancers which turn on and off genes during development and in response to the environment. Mutations disrupting enhancers are often a cause of human diseases ranging from congenital malformations to intellectual disabilities to cancer. The Kvon lab uses a combination of new genome engineering tools and the mouse as a model system to explore two significant questions about enhancer biology:

Professor Lee integrates science topics with social issues in her courses, asking her students to reflect on social injustices and inequities. Her education research is focused on implementing and evaluating culturally responsive pedagogy in biology courses, and how to better support her students’ success. She is also interested in how faculty and graduate teaching assistants have trained and approach diversity, equity, and inclusion in the science courses.

Fish display a stunning variety of shapes, sizes, structures and colors, contributing to their ability to inhabit virtually all aquatic environments. The Martinez lab studies fish diversity and evolution, exploring how variation in physical form impacts the way species function and move as they interact with other organisms and their surroundings.

A primary focus is on developing methods to summarize key features of fish movements that can be applied across ecologically diverse species.

The research aims to link morphologies with the motions they generate and to reveal fundamental patterns underlying the evolution of functional systems.

Professor Nicholas studies the complex intersection of the nutrient environment, the immune system and metabolic disease. Using a combination of molecular and cellular biology, transgenic mouse models, cytokine profiling and flow cytometry, her lab focuses on type 2 diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome – complex metabolic disorders with no known cures. What is certain about these increasingly prevalent metabolic syndromes is that chronic inflammation is a dynamic and prominent component of their etiology. Research in the Nicholas lab will help decrypt the relationships between nutrition, inflammation and endocrine disease to determine how inflammation is initiated and ultimately, improve disease treatment strategies.

Christopher Halbrook, PhD

Evgeny Kvon, PhD

1. How do mutations in enhancers lead to human disease? and, 2. How do enhancers activate their target genes over long genomic distances?

Dequina Nicholas, PhD

2020-2021 FACULTY RETIREMENTS

John Avise, PhD

Maria Rebolleda-Gomez, PhD Assistant Professor Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

Microbes affect global nutrient cycles, the development of the immune system, and the resource acquisition and stress responses of plants and animals.

These and other microbial functions depend on the interactions between different species in complex communities. Professor RebolledaGomez is working to understand (and potentially predict) the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of these communities. She is exploring three significant questions: 1. How do microbial interactions shape community function?

2. How do changes in microbial interactions affect their evolution?

3. How do community dynamics change as organisms evolve?

Arielle Tambini, PhD

Assistant Professor Neurobiology and Behavior

The ability to remember information about the past is a critical aspect of behavior. Neural processes that unfold after learning experiences are thought to play a critical role in determining whether memories endure. Professor Tambini’s research aims to better understand the mechanisms that support human memory retention.

While mechanisms during sleep help promote memory, her past work suggests that awake periods after learning also contribute to memory retention. Research in the Tambini lab thus seeks to understand the types of awake brain states and time periods that support memory retention and investigate how memory mechanisms interact across wakefulness and sleep.

David Gardiner, PhD

Distinguished Professor EEB

Associate Dean of Academic Personnel, Professor DCB

Michael Buchmeier, PhD

Ann Sakai, PhD

Michael Cumsky, PhD

Donald Senear, PhD

Travis Wiles, PhD

Assistant Professor Molecular Biology and Biochemistry

The Wiles lab is focused on uncovering the unseen connections between animals and the microbial world. His lab uses transparent zebrafish as an animal model, genetically engineered microbial communities and live imaging to spy on the inner workings of the gut microbiome. Professor Wiles’ research is specifically focused on piecing together a broader picture of the life cycles and evolutionary trajectories of gut microbes. The discoveries made in the Wiles lab will help illuminate new possibilities for therapeutically manipulating the microbiome to defend against pathogens, stop the spread of antibiotic resistance and promote immune homeostasis.

Professor MBB, Division of Infectious Diseases

Professor of Teaching MBB

Professor EEB

Professor MBB

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

28 29

FACULTY – WHERE AR E T HEY NOW

PANDEMIC PUTS EMERITUS PROFESSOR IN AN UNEXPECTED PLACE Larry Marsh didn’t plan to go back into the classroom after retiring from UCI

Professor Marsh and his wife, Jamie, would get their grandchildren settled in and logged on

BioSci. But then the pandemic struck, and the retired emeritus professor from the

at 8:30 a.m., working from three classroom spaces they set up in their dining room and office.

Department of Developmental and Cell Biology found himself once again facing

The Marshes would help the kids with their learning until 4 p.m., when their parents returned.

students. This time, though, the learners were his four small grandchildren.

The fact Jamie Marsh spent her career as a first-grade teacher aided the pair immeasurably,

At 8:15 a.m. every weekday from last September until late this spring, Professor

“and gave me a real appreciation of how hard her work was,” Professor Marsh said.

Marsh’s son and daughter would drive to his Newport Beach home to drop off their

While pitching in to assist his grandchildren was unexpected, the experience was meaningful.

youngsters before going to work. Their son has a second-grader and twins in first

“This was a rare opportunity to spend time with them. We watched a couple of them go from

grade, and their daughter’s child is a preschooler.

pre-reading to reading on their own and being excited about it.”

The difference between instructing elementary learners and college students was noticeable.

“When you teach university students, they write the information down,” Professor Marsh said.

“A small child will ask ‘Why?’ and answering that question isn’t always easy. Teaching molecular genetics is easier than explaining phonics to a first-grader. There are so many rule violations, it’s crazy.”

Professor Marsh retired from BioSci in 2017 and quickly began a host of activities. He and his wife became master gardeners, and they now grow citrus fruit, avocados, apricots, apples, blueberries, onions, tomatoes, cauliflower and more in their backyard. The pair also spent time camping in the Southwest and skiing, hiking and fishing in the Sierras, where they have a second home. When the pandemic reined in their activities, helping the grandchildren with school provided adventure of a different sort.

“I thought we would be a little bored sitting at home, but wow, we were exhausted,” he said.

“But it was great.”

During his career at BioSci, Professor Marsh investigated the mechanisms of neurodegeneration in disorders like Huntington’s Disease and worked to understand how tissues become organized into coherent structures during development. The work brought him great satisfaction.

“I had the ability to come into the job each morning and basically play chess with nature,” he said. “And I got to do it with a lab full of wonderful people who interacted well, with students, postdocs and collaborations with colleagues.”

He takes pride in BioSci’s ever-increasing prestige. “I have been watching it for the past 40 years and you see it reflected in all kinds of things, from rankings to grants brought in and events that are sponsored. The school has been growing, and growing well.”

2020 FACULTY AWARDS AND HONORS 2020 Highly Cited Researcher ISI Web of Science

Steven Allison, PhD and Kathleen Treseder, PhD

2020-2021 Faculty Innovation Fellows UCI Beall Applied Innovation

Aimee Edinger, PhD and Sunil Gandhi, PhD

2020 Elected Fellow

American Association for the Advancement of Science

Travis Huxman, PhD

2020 Early Career Fellow

Ecological Society of America

Joleah Lamb, PhD

Daniel G. Aldrich, Jr. Distinguished University Service Award University of California, Irvine

Arthur Lander, MD, PhD

2020 Elected Fellow

American Association for the Advancement of Science

Thomas Lane, PhD

2020 Elected Fellow

Entomological Society of America

Catherine Loudon, PhD

2020 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching UCI School of Biological Sciences

Nancy Aguilar-Roca, PhD

2020 Elected Fellow

American Association for the Advancement of Science

Jennifer Martiny, PhD

Donald Bren Professor

University of California, Irvine

Leslie Thompson, PhD

Inaugural Howard A. Schneiderman Endowed Chair UCI School of Biological Sciences

Kathleen Treseder, PhD

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

30 31

DEAN’S LEADERSHIP COUNCIL The school’s Dean’s Leadership Council (DLC) is composed of successful alumni, business executives and community leaders who provide counsel to the dean and help ensure

Michael Aguiar ‘88

Former President and CEO Innoviva, Inc.

Brian Atwood, MBA, ‘74

Jay Calvert, MD, FACS

Former CEO and Co-Founder Cell Design Labs

Plastic Surgeon

that our strategic mission is properly aligned with the needs of society and business.

They provide valuable financial support to advance the mission of the school’s priorities of teaching, research and public service.

Council members embody the spirit of philanthropy and function as our “eyes and ears” outside the university walls. They offer

Wajdie Ahmad, MBA, ‘12 Biopharma Executive and Entrepreneur

Professional Investor

Paul Balalis, MBA

Ed Chang ’01

Zachary Antovich ’92

Mitchell Brin, MD, FAAN

Charles Dunlop

Co-Founder Avenu Medical

significant insights to the dean, including industry trends that impact our graduates and our faculty’s research. Our DLC members function as ambassadors and advocates, introducing us to key decision makers and industry leaders who support our strategic goals and special initiatives.

Biotech Entrepreneur

SVP & CSO, BOTOX and Neurotoxins AbbVie

Founder Ambry Genetics

Aaron Elliott, PhD

Tamra Kaplan, PharmD, ‘86

William Loudon, MD, PhD Section Chief, Pediatric Neurosurgery CHOC

Retired, VP of Medical Affairs and CMO CHOC

Maria Minon, MD, ’72,’76

Debu Tewari, MD, ’93, ’97, ’14

John Gerace, MBA, ’87

Behnam Khaleghi, MD

Mohannad Malas

Michael O’Connell

Nita Tewari, PhD, ’92

CEO Ambry Genetics

President DiaSorin Molecular LLC

Diana Hendel, PharmD, ’85 Senior Partner Partnership Advantage

SVP, Operations Phoenix Children’s Hospital

Rheumatology Specialist Pacific Rheumatology Medical Center

Nikan Khatibi, DO, ’04

CEO and Medical Director Ahura Healthcare Corporation

CEO IRA Capital, LLC

Executive Director Irvine Ranch Conservancy

James McGaugh, PhD

M. Jay Porcelli, DO, FACOFP, ’72

Distinguished Professor Emeritus, Neurobiology and Behavior University of California, Irvine

Osteopathic Physician

Director, Gynecologic Oncology Kaiser Permanente OC

Mental Health Educator Nita Tewari PhD Consulting

Jeff Volpe

President and General Manager ViewSonic Corporation

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

32 33

SCHOOL LEADERSHIP AND STAFF

Karina Cramer, PhD Associate Dean for Academic Personnel

Associate Dean of Research and Innovation

Raju Metherate, PhD

Associate Dean of Undergraduate Education

R. Michael Mulligan, PhD

Aimee Edinger, PhD

Benedicte Shipley

Andrew DiNuzzo

Robyn Martinelli

Rahasson Ager, PhD

Regina Castleman

Equity Advisor

Randy Bautista, PhD Principal Institutional Research Analyst

Brandon Gaut, PhD

Assistant Dean

Principal Communications Officer

Executive Director of Development

Marketing and Communications Manager

Associate Dean of Graduate Studies

Senior Director of Development

Michael Yassa, PhD

Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Shannon Ingram

Director of Marketing and Communications

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

34 35

BIOSCI’S FOUR ACADEMIC DEPARTMENTS

Addressing the grand challenges facing the MIND-BODY-WORLD, pushing the boundaries of exploration through their research and preparing students to become passionate biologists who will help provide a healthier and more prosperous future.

NEUROBIOLOGY AND BEHAVIOR (NBB)

DEVELOPMENTAL AND CELL BIOLOGY (DCB)

Marcelo Wood, PhD / Chair Kim Green, PhD / Vice-Chair Sally Dabiri / Department Administrator

Kavita Arora, PhD / Chair Lee Bardwell, PhD / Vice-Chair Andrea Wiley / Department Administrator

UCI BioSci was the first institution worldwide to establish a department dedicated to the study of the brain and the nervous system. The Department of Neurobiology and Behavior was launched in 1964, five years before the Society for Neuroscience’s formation. Our researchers lead the way in probing health and diseases of the brain and the mind’s extraordinary capacities. As happened with the school’s structure, this model was adopted and is now in place at every university.

Our research programs seek a better understanding of cell differentiation and morphogenesis, as well as the origins of developmental disorders and cancer.

Faculty in the Department of Developmental and Cell Biology have expertise in diverse disciplines such as genetics and stem cell biology. As they advance our understanding of the body, they are making discoveries to transform human health.

S CH O O L LE ADE RS H IP

MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY (MBB)

Celia Goulding, PhD / Chair Michael Green, PhD / Vice-Chair Melissa Lodoen, PhD / Vice-Chair Bessy Varela / Department Administrator Faculty in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry work on questions that concern life at the molecular level. Their members consist of immunologists and structural biologists interested in uncovering a deeper understanding of the inanimate molecules that govern life. Research in MBB has uncovered vital knowledge on vector control methods, vascular biology, biofuels, autoimmune disease and drug design, just to name a few.

ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY (EEB)

Travis Huxman, PhD / Chair Catherine Loudon, PhD / Vice-Chair Marissa Reyes / Department Administrator This department investigates biological processes crucial for sustaining the planet amid the threat of climate change. Research in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology utilizes a range of methods that span field studies, experimental approaches and theoretical and computer modelling. From the molecular level to the spectrum of ecosystems, our scientists are uncovering the secrets to protecting our world.

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

36 37

SCHOOL FACTS AND STATS in the nation for diversity.

– Wall Street Journal / Times Higher Education

UCI BioSci offers 10 undergraduate degrees and 5 graduate degrees (1 doctoral and 4 masters).

8

2021 COLLEGE RANKINGS

#

Public University in the U.S.

– U.S. News & World Report 2021

Fall 2020 Enrollment Snapshot

3,913 UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

26%

come from underrepresented ethnic backgrounds

choice for first-generation students among all UC campuses

With UCI as a minority serving institute, the university and school are in a unique position with strong potential to take a leadership role in shaping the next generation of scientists that accurately reflect our nation’s diversity.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

65% FEMALE

47% are firstgeneration college students

S CH O O L LE ADE RS H IP

395 GRADUATE STUDENTS

59% FEMALE

Undergraduate Research APPROXIMATELY

1,000

Undergraduate Outcomes

974 UNDERGRAD DEGREES AWARDED (2019-20)

undergraduate students conduct laboratory, clinical or field research as apprentice scientists.

APPROXIMATELY

21%

come from underrepresented ethnic backgrounds

8

#

Sierra magazine has named UCI No.1 “Coolest School” in the U.S.

UCI is ranked No. 8 on Money’s list of “Best Colleges for Transfer Students.”

40% of BioSci undergraduate alumni go on to get a doctoral (PhD) or professional degree (MD, DDS, etc.).

Graduate Outcomes DOCTORAL DEGREES AWARDED (2019-20): MASTER’S DEGREES AWARDED (2019-20):

36 64

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

38 39

GET I NVOLVED

Discover the Living World with UCI BioSci You are invited to learn about exciting discoveries shaping the future of mind, body and world

THE DEAN’S DISTINGUISHED LECTURE SERIES The Dean’s Distinguished Lecture Series was created in 2014 by Dean Frank LaFerla to share with the public the vital research being conducted at UCI BioSci. These events have become one of the best examples of UCI’s public outreach. The 2020-21 lectures included:

Craig Stark, PhD

“Why does Our Memory Decline with Age (and can we do anything about it)?”

February 2020

Thomas Lane, PhD

“COVID-19 and the Impact on the Central Nervous System.”

November 2020

health by joining us for educational events held throughout the year, including via Zoom while necessary.

BioSci faculty and special guests offer insights into biological research in an enjoyable and thought-provoking manner for non-scientists and scientists alike.

Michael Buchmeier, PhD John Gerace, MBA Thomas Lane, PhD Ilhem Messaoudi, PhD Andrew Noymer, PhD

“COVID-19 – Moving Beyond the Pandemic: A Discussion on Research, New Strains, Testing, Neurological Challenges and Vaccines.”

February 2021

For more information on upcoming topics, dates, times and locations, please visit bio.uci.edu/events

CONNECT WITH BIOSCI! UCI School of Biological Sciences

Search: UCI School of Biological Sciences

@UCIBioSci

@UCIBioSci

#ucibiosci

Share your story with #UCIBioSci

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

40 41

G ET I NVOLVED

BIOSCI AMBASSADORS: SUPPORTERS OF BIOLOGY’S BRILLIANT FUTURE The UCI School of Biological Sciences has worked hard to demonstrate that mind, body and world health are interconnected. The COVID-19 pandemic has proven that anything affecting one of the trio will ultimately impact the other two. As our faculty focus their research efforts to help battle this unprecedented event, the BioSci Ambassadors, a select group of the school’s fiercest supporters, have stepped up through their dedication and generosity. This dynamic group of people has set a new standard of philanthropy through significant gifts to the Dean’s Excellence Fund while providing insights for school leadership.

As advocates for BioSci, the Ambassadors are invited to participate in exclusive programming, lectures and networking events. They speak one-on-one with school leadership, faculty and outside experts about the most vital issues facing the future. They may also come into our classrooms to share their expertise with our students. What’s more, members get to know each other through these opportunities, making connections that build knowledge and contacts.

The BioSci Ambassadors are a mix of people that includes alumni, faculty, parents, staff and members of the general public. Many are trained biologists who have a voracious desire to understand the living world. Others may not be trained in the field, but are passionate about our commitment to educating the newest generation of biologists.

Everyone in this group shares the commitment to advancing audacious discovery, world-changing research and the highest quality of education for the next generation of biologists.

Please consider becoming a part of this movement by joining BioSci Ambassadors today!

Learn more about becoming a BioSci Ambassador by visiting https://bsa.bio.uci.edu/.

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

42 43

G IVIN G

SCIENCE HOLDS THE KEY TO A SAFER, HEALTHIER FUTURE. HERE’S HOW YOU CAN HELP. In the wake of the COVID-19 global disaster, the need for innovation and discovery through biological research is at an unprecedented level in our modern history. We know many of you want to help, and we welcome your assistance. By contributing to the Dean’s Excellence Fund, you allow us to take immediate action in support of biological research to prevent another worldwide pandemic. With your generous support, our faculty and students can conduct innovative research to solve society’s most significant biological challenges.

Please consider giving today to the Dean’s Excellence Fund to continue our efforts to push research boundaries and ensure that our world will always have a better tomorrow. For more information, please contact Robyn Martinelli or Andrew DiNuzzo in our development office.

Andrew DiNuzzo Executive Director of Development adinuzzo@uci.edu 949.824.8387

Robyn Martinelli Senior Director of Development robyn.martinelli@uci.edu 949.824.2734 BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

44 45

2020 DONOR HONOR ROLL

UCI School of Biological Sciences is grateful to all our donors. Your gifts truly make a difference in the pursuit of our mission.

The honor roll below is reflective of gifts and pledges made between January 1, 2020 - December 31, 2020. Thank you!

We make every effort to list all donors accurately. If, however, you find an error, please contact us at bio-development@uci.edu.

To view our longtime donor alumni and friends list, please visit bio.uci.edu/giving

$1,000,000 +

$5,000 – $24,999

$1,000 – $4,999

$1,000 – $4,999

Lester ‘94 and Vani Ng Lionel and Fay Ng

The Allergan Foundation Zachary ‘92 and Kit Antovich Susan Bryant and David Gardiner EpiVario Inc. Facebook Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund Howard Hughes Medical Institute Anthony James ‘73, ‘79 and Cynthia French ‘79 James McGaugh The Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation John O’Toole ‘94 and Kristin Walter Allison Soung Stanford ADVANCE Institute Stanford University Ann Stephens ‘70 Charles and Suzanne Turner

Michele ‘78 and Richard Africano Michael Aguiar ‘88 and Lisa Avallone ‘88 American Academy of Neurology Association for Biology Lab Education, Inc. Sameer Awsare ‘85, ‘89 Dennis ‘79 and Diane Baker Alan Bernstein Nicolas Burtnyk and Lori-Ann Christie Alex Cable Children’s Hospital Boston Communication Disorders Research Foundation Marischal De Armond Hung Fan and Michael Feldman Philip and Kathryn Friedel Michael Friedlander Joanna Gerry-Paul ‘95 and David Paul Tamera Hatfield-Heintz ‘88, ‘04 and Gregory Heintz ‘88 International Brain Research Organization Sinan Kanatsiz Arvind Kaushik ‘05 and Padma Haran Kennedy Krieger Institute Nikan Khatibi ‘04 Christopher Lay ‘11

Susan Levitt Yvonne and William Liu Farah Lubin Massachusetts Institute of Technology Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience Dewey ‘99, ‘01 and Jessica McLin ‘05 Maria Minon ‘72, ‘76 Kathie Olsen ‘79 OpenBCI Ronald and Irene Perez M. Jay ‘72 and Maria Porcelli Brian ‘76 and Jeri Roberts Deborah Sassoon and Daniel Gil Roderick ‘82 and Pamela Seamster Stanford University School of Medicine Robert Stone and Charlotte Bischel John Tierney ‘01, ‘06 and Mona Hanouni ‘03 Greg ‘71 and Sheryl Vacca Donna Wanless ‘73 Jane Woods Ernest Wright ‘06 Yale University

$100,000 – $999,999 Alzheimer’s Association Amplifica, Inc. Barbara Hamkalo LEO Foundation The Ray and Tye Noorda Foundation Carma Tomlinson Tower Cancer Research Foundation Victor and Virginia Voth Foundation

$25,000 – $99,999 Jay and Kris Calvert Gloria Christensen ‘97 Diana Hendel ‘85 Ralph W. & Leona B. Gerard Family Trust NAAF Diane and Igal Silber The American Physiological Society

$100 – $999

$100 – $999

$100 – $999

$100 – $999

Gonzalo and Maria Alvarez Deborah ‘73 and Gregory Arvesen ‘73 Barry Barnhill ‘89 and Michael Burgess Hing Be ‘90 Erik Berg ‘94 Mark ‘77 and Mary Blake Ed Boyden British Neuroscience Association Joan Brown Michael and Nancy Buchmeier Elena Chartoff Joann Choi-Yang and Samuel Yang Evelyn Choo ‘88 June Chou ‘91, ‘00 Amy Chu ‘89 Jimmie Covington Leo Cummins Susan ‘83 and Michael Eckhardt William Fogarty Michael Fox Lisa ‘94 and Brian Galbraith Vittorio Gallo Todd ‘79 and Carol Gleeson Andrew Goldman Susan Groff ‘80 Andrew Haig ‘97

Seth Hepner Nancy Hill Daniel Hovenstine ‘79, ‘80 Stephen Hryniewicki ‘76, ‘80 Ben Huang Lin Kim ‘17 Denis ‘76 and Barbara Kitayama David Lake ‘72 Jeri Lane ‘76 and Gary Rogers Diep Le and Andrew Tran Ha and Tiffany Le Andrew Lee Jimmy Li ‘88 and Wendy Lu ‘90 Kevin ‘01 and Kathelyn Liang ‘00 Jia Liu and Desmond Ho Raymond Liu Salvatore and Eileen Lombardi Brian Lowe and Jenny Ren Chieh-Jen Ma ‘02 Grant MacGregor Anne Matich ‘92 James ‘78 and Debbie Matthews Mary McConnell Baiju Mehta ‘97 Raju and Lori Metherate David ‘81 and Theresa Milder

Edward ‘80 and Sumaya Miner Henry Mroch ‘89, ‘93 and Rhonda Beckner Naomi ‘74, ‘81 and Michael Nakata Amanda Naples Thanh and Julie Nguyen Ruby Nieves Rosana ‘92 and Joe Ortiz Lawrence ‘74 and Anita Ota Harry ‘75 and Mary Pantoja Kenneth and Peggy Pao Vickilyn Pard ‘67 Marise Parent ‘93 and Louis Herzog Sanjiv Patel ‘96 Pfizer Foundation Charles ‘93, ‘01 and Tara Preston Valerie Randolph ‘74 and Donald Fenbert Dean and Patti Ranger Ann Rappoport ‘75 and David Irons ‘92 Dipul Ray Patricia Ruiz Paul Runge Dale Schwab ‘78 and Lynne Drake Ann ‘70 and Michael Shaw ‘73, ‘78 Steven ‘81 and Cynthia Sholly Julie Siegenthaler

Robert ‘73 and Jo Anne Simon Nathan Smith Judith Stepan-Norris and Rick Norris Karen ‘86 and Robert Sutton Emily Sylwestrak Glen ‘73 and Ellen Takahashi Andrea Tenner and Thomas Poulos The France Family Trust Nancy Truglio ‘74 Donna Une ‘79, 94 University of Cincinnati University of Maryland, Baltimore Duane Vajgrt ‘85 Veeva Geraldine Vosberg Lana ‘95 and Tom Vu ‘96 Ted ‘73 and Carolyn Weyand Michael ‘71 and Signe Whittaker Andrea Wiley Alvin Wong Lawrence Wysocki ‘75 and Judith Spiegel Dorothy Yan ‘99 Craig Young ‘84 and Sharon Busey Rosalind ‘81 and Gary Ziccardi

UCI BioSci 2021 Dean’s Report Dean Frank M. LaFerla, PhD Assistant Dean Benedicte Shipley Editor Shannon Ingram Features Editor Rahasson Ager, PhD Design and Production Lance Morcos LM Design Ink Copy Editor Audrey Knoth Contributing Writers Randy Bautista, PhD Regina Castleman Elizabeth Meredith Photography Shannon Cottrell Donato Di Natale Wesley Koseki

BioSci Dean’s Report 2021

46 47

BRILLIANT

FUTUR E

5120 NATURAL SCIENCES II / IRVINE, CA 92697-1450 / (949) 824-5315 / BIO.UCI.EDU