Department of Biology
College of Science, Engineering, and Technology
Jackson State University’s degree options in Biology is designed to prepare students for graduate or professional studies, as well as for entering the job market. Students can elect to specialize in Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Pre-Health Careers(Dentistry, Medicine, Optometry, etc.), or Pre-Health Career Prerequisites (Pre-Dental, Hygiene, Pre-Nursing).
Marine Science Program Director
Dr. Brent Thoma
Office: JAP Science Building – Rm 315
Email: brent.p.thoma@jsums.edu
Phone: (601) 979-3461
Fax: (601) 979-5853
Education
- Ph.D. University of Louisiana at Lafayette, 2012; Environmental & Evolutionary Biology
- M.Sc. The University of Southern Mississippi, Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, 2006; Coastal Sciences
- B.A. University of Missouri at Columbia, 2003; Biology
Research Interests
- Phylogenetic systematics, taxonomy, and natural history of marine malacostracan crustaceans (e.g., crabs, shrimps, scuds)
- Transcriptomics natural selection, and the role of differential gene expression in adaptation
- Population connectivity and dispersal is marine crustaceans, particularly in groups lacking clear dispersal mechanisms
- Benthic ecology and ecosystem health of seagrass and associated marine habitats
READY TO JOIN?
For more information, please contact us at (601) 979-2586 or submit your questions and requests to biologydept@jsums.edu. We look forward to meeting with you and seeing how our program can help you achieve your goals.
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY
