Biology
Merideth Humphries
Dr. Merideth Humphries, Visiting Professor of Biology
Contact
208-459-5220
AREAS OF FOCUS
Molecular Biology
Genetics
Behavior
CREDENTIALS
PhD. Biochemistry. University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD. 2001. Dissertation: Characterization of a unique dopamine receptor in honey bees; structure, phylogeny, pharmacology, and function.
M.S. Entomology. University of California at Davis. Davis, CA. 1994. Thesis: The adaptive significance of egg cannibalism in the honey bee.
B.S. Zoology. Oregon State University. Corvallis, OR. 1986. Area of specialization: animal behavior
AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION
• Biochemistry (Molecular biology/Neurochemistry)
• Animal behavior (Behavioral ecology, Behavioral genetics, Neuroethology)
• Zoology (Zoology, Ecology, Entomology)
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
Introductory courses (The College of Idaho, Caldwell, ID)
Frontiers in Biology: Introductory biology course for biology majors. Focus on frontier areas
of biology; examples may include human genetics, bioinformatics, or cancer biology. The frontier topics cover the fundamental concepts including biology of inheritance and gene structure, function, and expression. Emphasis on scientific problem-solving, including collection, analysis, and interpretation of biological data. Readings, lectures, discussions and computer simulations. Includes a three hour lab component
Human Genetics: Introductory course in human genetics for non-majors. Genetics and
genetic technology as applied to humans. Topics include classical (Mendelian) inheritance, genes and gene expression, inherited disorders, analysis of pedigrees, sex determination, biological basis of gender, genetics of behavior, gene therapy, and genetic privacy.
Introduction to Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology. Introduction to environmental forces
that shape the evolution of behavior. Topics covered include: experimental design and hypotheses testing; energy investment and the economy of behavior; evolutionary arms races; resource competition; sociality (kin recognition, altruism, cooperation and conflict); resource competition; sexual selection and evolution of mating systems; parental care; fighting and risk assessment (game theory).
Introductory courses (Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA. University of
California Davis, CA)
The Insect Connection: Taught two semesters of this introductory course in entomology. Course designed for non-majors that covers taxonomy, ecology, mating systems, physiology, behavior and applied biological and chemical control. Additionally, the vital roles of insects in forensics, soil science, environmental quality (indicator species) are presented as well as the cultural importance of insects in religion, art, and media.
Animal Behavior: Series of lectures introducing the neural mechanisms of behavior. Addressed the biochemical and physiological mechanisms of neuron function and signal transduction. Overview of sensory detection, neural processing (perception), motor output and neuromodulation.
Upper division courses:
Molecular Biotechnology: (The College of Idaho. Caldwell, ID). Introduction to major
techniques used in DNA technology and their applications for studying gene
structure, expression, manipulation, and cloning. Students become acquainted with
basic bioinformatics tools and nucleic acid/proteomic databases. Students will
integrate knowledge obtained in course to solve problems in DNA manipulation
including: genomic DNA isolation, PCR techniques, cloning strategies, hybiridization,
and use of cloning in gene expression. Contains 3 hour laboratory component.
Genetics: (The College of Idaho. Caldwell, ID). Course incorporates both classical
and molecular approaches to study the structure and function of DNA, genes, the
genome, and gene expression. Topics include, but are not limited to, classical genetic concepts, oncogenes, and cancer; cloning and gene therapy; current genome sequencing projects, sex determination and sex chromosomes, genetic screening, and population genetics.
Cell Biology: (The College of Idaho. Caldwell, ID). Introduction to the components of
cells and processes that occur in living cells. Topics include cell structure and function, genetic events, regulation of gene expression, and the chemical pathways of metabolism. Readings, lectures, discussions. Course includes 3 hour laboratory component.
Behavioral Ecology of Insects: (University of California Davis, Davis, CA) Series of guest
lectures covering topics in the evolution of conflict and cooperation in social insects. Students examined the genetic basis for reproductive conflict (kin recognition, parental manipulation) and social cooperation (altruism) in animals using eusocial insect models.
Insect Structure and Function: (Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA)
Guest lectured on the topic of evolution of insect head tagmata: Comparison of head orientation and mouthparts between major groups of insects. Included were tagmosis in the insect head, functional diversity of mouthpart structure and evolutionary modification of head structure correlating with feeding strategies.
Invited Lecturer (University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD)
Genetically Modified Foods. One day mini-course designed for non-biology majors learning English as a second language. Introduction to DNA structure, cloning, and protein expression. A discussion of ethical and environmental issues surrounding genetic engineering followed lecture material.
Laboratory courses (Dept. of Biochemistry, University of Queensland. St. Lucia, QLD):
Lower division biochemistry courses:
Basic biochemistry lab practical experience (second year course)
Taught two full semesters of this laboratory where students learned how to master basic tools of the molecular biologist including use of sterile technique and fluid handling: accuracy and precision in measurement, correct pipetting techniques. Students learn theory and practice of electrophoresis, plasmid preparations, restriction enzyme analysis, PCR, and nucleic acid hybridization techniques. Provided short tutorials, and written laboratory exercises which were graded weekly.
Upper division biochemistry courses:
In situ hybridization (third year course)
I designed and implemented this upper-level course in molecular biology where students learned how to prepare RNA probes to examine the spatial and temporal patterns of genes expressed in the insect brain. Students in this course learned rudimentary dissection skills and advanced nucleic acid hybridization techniques. I was responsible for preparation of laboratory materials, tutorials and laboratory exercises as well as evaluation of all written reports associated with this module which was taught in two semesters.
cDNA and genomic library screening, clone excision and analysis (third year
course). Students learned how to screen a cDNA library in lambda phage for specific clones, excise and sequence these clones from the phage. Students learn hybridization techniques to solid substrates, PCR, and phage handling. This upper division laboratory course was taught for two full semesters during which I delivered associated tutorials, laboratory exercises and assessment of laboratory reports.
Discussion courses (Dept. of Biochemistry, University of Queensland. St. Lucia, QLD):
PBL Metabolic Biochemistry: Upper division biochemical course utilizing problem- based learning methodologies. Course targets students entering the medical sciences. Students are exposed to case studies where “Patients” present with a suite of symptoms and limited health history. Using their knowledge of metabolic, molecular, viral, and microbial biochemistry they must use critical and analytical skills and work cooperatively to solve problems. Independent student participation
in class is evaluated by coordinator who provides limited direction and critical review. Taught two rotations over one semester.
Teaching assistant (University of California Davis. Davis, CA)
Insects and Human Affairs: Non-majors entomology course designed to illustrate how insects have changed human history and culture. How the outcome of wars and global pandemics have been influenced by insect-vectored diseases. Mythological stories are used to illustrate how insects navigate.
Controversy surrounding original studies of honey bee “dance language”.
OUTREACH
Workshops: One-day courses designed to stimulate interest in science for primary
and secondary school students.
Apiculture and Bee Behavior. (American River College of California) Introduction to beekeeping and honey bee social behavior. Foraging behavior and the scientific basis of the honey bee “dance language” are covered in this course. Students observed bees and beekeeping equipment set up at stations where exercises and activities were performed. Designed to stimulate interest in science among teens.
Herpetology “Creepy Crawlers”. (Pioneer Elementary School, Oregon)
Course introduced students to amphibian and reptile natural history and biology. Rudiments in conservation biology and physiology were covered. Students learned about the biology of reptiles and amphibians during a stimulating presentation culminating in the handling of live specimens.
Community Education Fairs: Day long activities for adults and children centered
around learning the biology, ecology, control and conservation of insects.
Picnic day. (University of California. Davis, CA) Visitors learned about honey production
and bee biology and behavior using an observation hive for live insect
demonstrations.
Great insect fair. (Pennsylvania State University. University Park, PA) Adults and children
exposed to numerous indoor live insect displays and learning stations. In outdoor activities, children are engaged in physical activities designed to compare human athletic performance with that of insects.
Griffith University Mentorship Program (Griffith University, Qld, Australia)
Mentored biotechnology student 2005. Taught student several advanced
PCR techniques including degenerate PCR, asymmetric PCR, gradient PCR, and some cloning techniques.
ADVISING (The College of Idaho)
1.5 years experience advising undergraduates in curricula and course selection. Served as academic advisor for honors student and coordinated teaching assistants for 7 lab sections in introductory biology course.
COMMITTEES (The College of Idaho)
Experience serving on committees for the selection of candidates to fill academic and staff position vacancies.
RESEARCH EXPERIENCE
Baculovirus research
Faculty appointment/Research Associate
Department of Entomology, Pennsylvania State University, 12/2006-Present
PIs: Kelli Hoover (Penn State), Jim Slavichek (US Forest Service, Delaware, Ohio)
Overcoming resistance of gypsy moth larvae to a natural baculovirus control agent LdMNPV. Study effects of diet on the mechanisms of viral genes (enhancins) that facilitate infectivity and potency of baculovirus via disruption of peritrophic membrane. Develop recombinant baculovirus with vp39 capsid-EGFP fusion protein reporter to follow routes of infection host cellular defense mechanisms.
Vaccine development
Biotechnologist
Vaccine Delivery/Biotechnology Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, 1/2004-to 12/2006. PI: Timothy J. Mahony
Isolation of genes produced by Lucilia cuprina enhancing blowfly strike in sheep. Use of degenerate PCR, RACE, and production/screening of cDNA libraries to isolate genes encoding proteins that assist the fly in colonizing the host. Information obtained used to assist development of vaccine to guard against blowfly strike.
Insect genetics, neurochemistry and behavioral ecology
Post-doctoral research
University of California at Davis, 10/2000-12/2003. PI: Robert E. Page Jr.
Examination of signal transduction elements that correlate with phenotypic differences in foraging behavior in selected lines of honey bees. Measured content of cyclic nucleotide and phospholipase dependent protein kinases in the brains of bees of different ages and genotypic strains. Measured differences in cAMP-dependent protein kinase activity in the central brain. Measured gene expression patterns in the central brain of a G-protein coupled receptor genetically mapped to a QTL influencing foraging behavior.
Post-graduate researcher
University of California at Davis and University of Queensland, 9/1995-4/1997 and 7/1991-12/1993. PIS: Robert E. Page Jr. and Paul Ebert
Assist in genomic mapping of the sex locus and behavioral genes in selected lines of honey bees using RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) markers. Participated in screening of a honey bee central brain cDNA library for biogenic amine receptor genes. Used In situ hybridization to determine the spatial distribution of these receptors.
Research assistant
Oregon State University, 9/1994-9/1995. PI: Barbara Taylor.
Investigation of spatial expression of genes controlling sex-specific behavior in mutant strains of Drosophila melanogaster. Used in situ hybridization in brain and ventral nerve chord of adults and larvae.
Marine biology/climate change
Research assistant positions (in field and laboratory)
EPA/Hatfield Marine Science Centre, 9/1987-6/1989. PIs: John Chapman, Henry Lee
Environmental impact studies of UV-B on survival, productivity, and species composition of single celled marine diatoms and dinoflagellates. Measured energetics of filtration efficiency in estuarine amphipods. Analysis of PCB (polychlorinated benzene derivative) induced chromosomal damage in eggs of cyprinodon veriagatus.
Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 6/1989-9/1989. PI: James Regan
Investigation of the effects of UV-B exposure on Strombus gigas (the queen conch). Analysis of DNA damage, photo-reactivation, dark repair, behavioral avoidance and vertical migration patterns of conch larvae.
Oregon State University/ Hatfield Marine Science Centre,9/1986-9/1987 and 9/1989- 7/1991. PIS: Bori Olla, Michael Davis.
Studied photo taxis, aggregation and feeding behaviors of Tharagra chalcogramma (Walleye Pollack). Measured learning and predation avoidance in three species of salmon smolts. Trained naïve salmon smolts to avoid predation to minimize losses incurred after hatchery release.
Vertebrate behavior studies
Research assistant positions
Oregon State University 6/1986-9/1986. PI: Lynn Carpenter. Field study
Studied foraging and territorial behavior of Rufous hummingbirds on summer migration route near Bishop California. Performed time budget analysis of behavior, weight recording, radio-tracking. Daily analysis of floral nectar stores in study territories. Mist-netting and tagging of birds in new study sites.
Oregon State University 9/85-6/86. PI: Andy Blaustein.
Studied kin recognition in tadpoles (Hyla regilla). Analyzed association times between related and unrelated individuals.
AWARDS
• Commemorative Fellowship 1997 (Australian Federation of University Women Fellowship Fund Inc.).
• Overseas Postgraduate Research scholarship 1997-2001 (University of Queensland).
• Graduate Student Travel Award 1998 (The University of Queensland for research conducted at the University of Otago, Dunedin New Zealand).
MEMBERSHIP IN PROFESSIONAL SOCIETIES
• Society for Invertebrate Pathology (June 2006-Present)
• International Society for Neuroethology (June 1995-June 1996)
• Society for Neurocience (June 1998-June 2001)
PUBLICATIONS ( * denotes publications including undergraduate researchers)
Hoover, K., M. Humphries, A. Gendron, J. Slavicek. 2010. Impact of viral enhancin genes on
potency of Lymantria dispar multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus in L. dispar following disruption of the peritrophic matrix. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology (online).
Elkington, R.A., M. Humphries, M. Commins, N. Maugeri, T. Tierney, T. J. Mahony. 2009. A
Lucilia cuprina excretory-secretory protein inhibits the early phase of lymphocyte activation and subsequent proliferation. Parasite Immunology 31:750-765.
Humphries, M.A., M.K. Fondrk, R.E. Page, Jr. 2005. Locomotion and the pollen hoarding
behavioral syndrome of the honeybee (Apis mellifera L.). Journal of Comparative Physiology Series A 191:669-674.
Humphries, M.A., U. Müller, M.K. Fondrk, R.E. Page, Jr. 2003. PKA and PKC content in
the honey bee central brain differs in genotypic strains with distinct foraging behavior. Journal of Comparative Physiology Series A 189:555-562.
Humphries, M.A., J.A. Mustard, S.J. Hunter, A. Mercer, V. Ward, P.R. Ebert. 2003. An
invertebrate D2 type dopamine receptor exhibits age-based plasticity of
expression in the mushroom bodies of the honey bee brain. Journal of
Neurobiology 55:315-330.
* Page, R.E., M.K. Fondrk, G.J. Hunt, E. Guzmán-Novoa, M.A. Humphries, K.
Nguyen, A.S. Greene. 2000. Genetic dissection of honeybee (Apis mellifera L.)
foraging behavior. J. Heredity 91:474-479.
CONTRIBUTED TALKS IN CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS
Humphries, M.A., P.R. Ebert. 1999. A unique D1-like dopamine receptor gene in honey bees shows age related expression in mushroom body intrinsic cells. Proceedings
of the XIII International Congress of International Union for the Study of Social Insects (IUSSI), Adelaide, Australia.
CONTRIBUTED POSTERS IN CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS
Humphries, M.A., J. Slavicek, N. Hayes-Plazolles, K. Hoover. 2007. Impact of enhancin genes on potency of LdMNPV in oak-fed gypsy moths. Proceedings of the XL Annual Meeting of the Society for Invertebrate Pathology, Quebec, Canada.
Humphries, M.A., U. Müller, M.K. Fondrk, R.E. Page, Jr. 2002. Differences in PKA and PKC content in the central brain are associated with foraging behavior in selected lines of honey bees. Gordon Research Conferences in Neuroethology: Behavior, evolution and neurobiology. Oxford, UK.
Humphries, M.A., P.R. Ebert. 1998. Age related expression of a D1 dopamine receptor in honey bee brains. The 24th Annual Society for Neuroscience Abstracts: Volume 24. Los Angeles, CA.
ADDITIONAL SKILLS
Two years college level training in basic drawing, perspective drawing, life-drawing, calligraphy, and sculpture/ceramics. Some scientific illustration.