Dr Masha Smallhorn

I graduated with a PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the Australian National University in 2004. During my PhD, I analysed developmental roles for the Drosophila melanogaster gene pebble (pbl). Using a diverse range of molecular, classical genetic and biochemical techniques, I identified a novel PBL-mediated intracellular signalling pathway that operates in mesodermal cells during mesoderm cell migration following ventral furrow formation.

The time spent working in the laboratory during my PhD fostered a love of learning and teaching. In 2005 I completed a Graduate Diploma in Education thus qualifying as a secondary teacher. I have built on this knowledge in my current position in the School of Biological Sciences at Flinders University. I recently completed a Graduate Certificate in Higher Education.

As an education-focussed academic I am passionate about higher education and fostering a love of learning in my students. My areas of interest include first year transition, laboratory learning, inquiry-based learning and genetics education. I am currently developing education focussed research projects to evaulate the redevelopment of first year biology laboratories.