DNA Decoded

Dr. Caitlin Mullarkey is an Assistant Professor in the Bachelor of Health Science Program at McMaster University, where she teaches courses in virology, immunology, cell biology, and biochemistry to undergraduate students. A Rhodes Scholar, Dr. Mullarkey earned her doctorate from the University of Oxford and completed her postdoctoral research under the mentorship of renowned influenza virologist Dr. Peter Palese at the Icahn School of Medicine. Her teaching philosophy is shaped by her experiences in both a small liberal arts college and the Oxford tutorial system, emphasizing student-faculty interaction and collaboration. Dr. Mullarkey's research focuses on improving influenza virus vaccines, aiming to develop a universal vaccine that offers broader protection and eliminates the need for annual reformulation. Her scientific approach to teaching involves formulating essential questions about course material and tailoring delivery methods to suit her students' backgrounds, fostering deep engagement with the curriculum.

Dr. Felicia Vulcu is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences at McMaster University, where she focuses on laboratory-based courses and curriculum design. She is dedicated to fostering safe and nurturing learning environments that promote lifelong education. Dr. Vulcu employs innovative teaching methods, including team think tanks, flipped-classroom case studies, and Labster virtual labs, to help students apply biochemistry techniques to real-world biomedical challenges such as drug discovery. Recently, she contributed to the design and implementation of the Biomedical Discovery and Commercialization program, developing a full-year advanced laboratory course that emphasizes inquiry-based research and collaborative learning. Recognized for her excellence in teaching, Dr. Vulcu has received several awards, including the President’s Award for Outstanding Contributions to Teaching and Learning. Her commitment to educational innovation and student engagement continues to shape the learning experiences of her students at McMaster University.