Introduction to Forensic Biology: Basics, Lessons and Applications
Edition: 1
Copyright: 2026
Pages: 278
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This textbook is designed for students with no prior science background who are fascinated by forensics. It introduces foundational biology concepts, starting with the essentials like chemistry, properties of water, organic molecules, and cell structure, then gradually builds into body systems and organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and animals that are critical in forensic investigations. Basic concepts covered in the biology foundation chapters are then applied to real-world forensic techniques, including blood spatter analysis, fingerprinting, DNA profiling, tissue decomposition, osteology, and entomology. By blending biology fundamentals with practical forensic applications, this book transforms complex science into an engaging, accessible journey for beginners eager to explore the biology behind solving crimes.
Chapter 1 The History of Forensics
Introduction
Key Characters in the History of Forensic Science
Conclusion
Chapter 2 Introduction to Biology
Introduction
Seven Aspects of Life
Order
Energy Processing
Growth and Development
Response to Environment
Reproduction
Regulation
Evolutionary Adaptation
Levels of Biological Organization
The Cell as the Smallest Unit of Life
Scientific Method
Observations
Hypothesis Testing
Controls in Scientific Experimentation
Scientific Theory
Conclusion
Chapter 3 Introduction to Cells
Introduction
Types of Cells
Common Features of All Cells
Plasma Membrane
Ribosomes
Deoxyribonucleic Acid
Cytosol and Cytoplasm
Prokaryotic Cells
Bacterial Cell Wall
Glycocalyx
Fimbriae and Pili
Eukaryotic Cells
Nucleus
Rough and Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum
Golgi Apparatus
Mitochondria and Chloroplasts
Vacuoles, Vesicles, Lysosomes, and Peroxisomes
Cytoskeleton
Centrosomes and Basal Bodies
Flagella and Cilia
Eukaryotic Cell Wall
Extracellular Matrix
Cell Junctions
Conclusion
Chapter 4 Atoms, Bonding, and the Properties of Water
Introduction
Introduction to Atoms
Introduction to Covalent, Ionic, and Hydrogen Bonds
Covalent Bonding
Ionic Bonding
Polar Covalent Bonding
Hydrogen Bonding
Introduction to the Properties of Water
Conclusion
Chapter 5 Introduction to Macromolecules, DNA Structure and Function
Introduction
Types of Macromolecules
Overview
Carbohydrates
Lipids
Proteins
Nucleic Acids
DNA and RNA Structure and Function
DNA Structure and Function
Ribonucleic Acid Structure and Function
Chromatin and Chromosomes
Purpose of Chromatin
Chromosome Structure and Function
Chromosome Numbers and Ploidy
Autosomes and Sex Chromosomes
Extranuclear DNA
Endosymbiotic Theory
Mitochondrial DNA
Chloroplast DNA
Plasmids
Conclusion
Chapter 6 Tissue Organization and Organ Systems
Introduction to the Four Tissue Types
Characteristic and Function of the Four Tissue Types
Epithelial Tissues
Characteristics of All Epithelial Tissues
Nine Types of Epithelial Tissues
Connective Tissue
Muscle Tissue
Neural Tissue
Introduction to the Types and Function of Organ Systems
Integumentary System
Cardiovascular System
Respiratory System
Skeletal System
Endocrine System
Muscular System
Digestive System
Lymphatic System
Nervous System
Urinary System
Reproductive System
Conclusion
Chapter 7 Changes to Soft Tissues Upon Death
The Stages of Decomposition
Four Stages of Fresh Decay (First 3 Days)
Pallor Mortis
Algor Mortis
Livor Mortis
Rigor Mortis
Bloat Stage (2–6 Days)
Active Decay (5–11 Days)
Advanced Decay (10–24 Days)
Dry Remains Stage (24 or More Days)
Unique Decay Conditions
Adipocere
Mummification
Conditions that Affect the Stage and Rate of Decomposition
Environmental Conditions
Sunlight
Containers and Wrappings
Water or Ground Burial
Wounds and Infection
Chemical Exposure
Burning of Remains
Conclusion
Chapter 8 Fingerprints, Hair, and Their Use for Identification
Introduction to Fingerprints
Fingerprint Patterns
Loop Patterns
Whorl Patterns
Arch Patterns
Analyzing Fingerprints
Analysis
Comparison
Evaluation
Verification
Collecting Fingerprints
Introduction to Hair
Anatomy and Growth of Hair
Transfer of Hair
Detection of Toxins in the Hair
Impressions of Other Objects
Conclusion
Chapter 9 Introduction to Blood and Detection Methods
Introduction
Blood Composition and Cell Types
Whole Blood and Its Components
Red Blood Cells
White Blood Cells
Introduction to Blood Typing
Important Components
Blood Type Genotypes
Rhesus Factor
Additional Blood Antigens
Introduction to Blood Detection Methods
Luminol Test
Kastle–Meyer Test
Conclusion
Chapter 10 Bloodstain Patterns and Analysis
Important Terminology When Examining Bloodstains
The Three Bloodstain Categories
Properties of Blood as it Relates to a Bloodstain Pattern
Introduction to Pattern from a Straight Blood Drop
Anatomy of a Bloodstain
Introduction to Passive Stain Patterns and Drip Trails
Passive Drip Trails
Flow Pattern
Pools and Saturation Stains
Transfer Marks
Introduction to Blood Spatter
Secondary Mechanism Spatter
Impact Spatter
Cast-Off and Projection Blood Spatter
Conclusion
Chapter 11 Bone Anatomy and Composition
Introduction to the Function of Bones
Levers
Protection
Storage
Blood Cell Production
Introduction to the Composition of Bones
Anatomy of Bone Tissue
Introduction to Bone Cells
Classification of Bones by Structural Class and Shape
Bone Healing and Lasting Evidence of Healing
Conclusion
Chapter 12 Anatomical Identification of Bones Including Race, Sex, and Age
Introduction
Directional Terminology
Major Bony Landmarks Found Common to All Bones
Introduction and Landmarks in the Axial Skeleton
The Skull
Vertebral Column
Thoracic Cage
Introduction and Landmarks of the Appendicular Skeleton
Pectoral Girdle
Humerus
Ulna
Radius
Carpals
Metacarpals
Phalanges
Pelvic Girdle
Lower Limb of the Body
Distinguishing Sex Based on Bone Differences
Distinguishing Age Based on Differences in the Bones
Conclusion
Chapter 13 Wounds: Patterns and Mechanism to Tissues
Introduction to Kinetic Wounds and Non-Kinetic Wounds
Blunt Force Wounds
Introduction to Sharp Force Traumas
Incised Wounds
Stab Wounds
Introduction to Asphyxia
Mechanism of Action
Signs of Asphyxia
Positional Asphyxia
Introduction to Firearm Wounds
Types of Firearms and Ammunition
Factors Affecting Firearm Wound Appearance
Bullet Wounds in Bones
Introduction to Bite Marks
Introduction to Burns
Introduction to Defense Wounds
Conclusion
Chapter 14 Urine, Feces, Saliva, and Semen: Identification and Detection
Introduction to Urine and Feces
Liver Detoxification and Production of Urine and Feces
Feces Analysis
Urine Analysis
Introduction to Saliva
Salivary Gland Function and Location
Saliva and Secreter Status
Introduction to Semen
Components and Production of Semen
Techniques for Isolating Semen Cells
Conclusion
Chapter 15 DNA Replication
Introduction
Enzymes Are Key Proteins in the Cell
Enzyme Components
Enzyme Environmental Factors
DNA Replication Initiation
Origin of Replication and Replication Forks
DNA Replication Extension
Single-Stranded Binding Proteins
Primase and DNA Polymerase III
Directionality of Deoxyribonucleic Acid
Directionality of DNA Polymerase
Leading and Lagging Strands
DNA Polymerase I and Ligase
Telomeres and Telomerase Activity
Conclusion
Chapter 16 Transcription and Translation
Introduction
The Role of RNA in Gene Expression
RNA Structure and Types
Gene Expression Components and Overview
Gene Expression in Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes
Triplet Codons and the Genetic Code
Directionality of Gene Expression
The Genetic Code Is Redundant and Universal
Transcription: Copying the DNA into RNA
Initiation of Transcription
Elongation of Transcription
Termination of Transcription
Eukaryotic RNA Processing
Splicing and the Spliceosome
Translation: Synthesizing the Polypeptide
Structure and Role of tRNA
Ribosome Structure
Translation Initiation
Translation Elongation
Translation Termination
Protein Folding and Function after Translation
Mutations: Alterations in the Genetic Code
Specific Types of Mutations
Causes of Mutations
Conclusion
Chapter 17 DNA Profiling in Forensics
First Case Solved by DNA Evidence
Overview of Genetics and Inheritance
DNA Structure and Function in Forensics
DNA Repeats: Short Tandem Repeats, Variable Number Tandem Repeats, and Satellite DNA
Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) and the Combined DNA Index System
Mutations and Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Forensics
Mitochondrial DNA and Its Function in Forensics
Conclusion
Chapter 18 Biotechnology in Forensics
Introduction
DNA Collection and Contamination Control
DNA Transfer and Trace Evidence
Polymerase Chain Reaction
Gel Electrophoresis
Capillary Electrophoresis
DNA Sequencing
Wildlife DNA and DNA Barcoding
Conclusion
Chapter 19 Introduction to the Domains of Life
Introduction
The Role of Taxonomy and Phylogeny in Organizing Life
Classifications and the Initiation of Binomial Nomenclature
The Science of Phylogeny
The Theory of Evolution
Contributions of Charles Darwin
Natural Selection and the Role in Evolution
The Role of 16S rRNA in the Three-Domain System
The Three Domains of Life
Introduction to Domain Archaea
Introduction to Domain Bacteria
Introduction to Domain Eukarya
Conclusion
Chapter 20 Domain Bacteria: Life and Death at the Microscopic Level
Introduction
Main Characteristics of Bacteria
Shared Bacterial Characteristics
Shapes and Arrangements of Bacteria
Energy Production through Cellular Respiration and Fermentation
Bacterial Identification and Significance
The Human Microbiome and Necrobiome
Locations of Microbiomes
Human Microbiome Project
The Necrobiome
Bacterial Agents of Bioterrorism
Anthrax
Botulism
Plague
Conclusion
Chapter 21 Kingdom Fungi: Decomposition and Poisons
Introduction
Cell Maintenance: Energy Requirements and Cell Division
Phototrophs, Chemotrophs, and Saprotrophs
Mitosis and Meiosis
Main Characteristics of Fungi
Important Phyla of Kingdom Fungi
Basidiomycota
Ascomycota
Zygomycota
Forensic Mycology: A Developing Science
Mycotoxins
Aflatoxin
Ochratoxin A
Ergot
Fusariotoxins
Mushroom Poisoning
Conclusion
Chapter 22 Kingdom Animalia: Species and Application in Forensic Biology
Introduction
An Overview of Kingdom Animalia
General Characteristics of Kingdom Animalia
Embryonic Development and Germ Layers
Symmetry and Body Plans
Invertebrates: A Major Group of Kingdom Animalia
Characteristics of Insects
Life Cycle of Flies
Forensic Entomology in Criminal Investigations
Conclusion
Chapter 23 Careers and Future Directions in Forensic Biology
Introduction
Careers in Forensic Biology
Forensic Pathologist
Forensic Toxicologist
Forensic Entomologist
Forensic Odontologist
Forensic Nurse
Forensic Scientist
Next Steps in Forensic Biology
Microbial Forensics
Mitochondrial DNA Databases
Use of Genetic Databases
Epigenetics
The Use of Artificial Intelligence
Conclusion
Bibliography
Glossary
Tracy Lee is an associate professor of biology and the current co-chair of the department of biology at Pikes Peak State College. She received her B.A. in exercise science and teaching certificate from Metro State University in Denver, Colorado. She earned her M.S. in biology with an emphasis in anatomy and physiology from the University of Nebraska Kearney. She teaches undergraduate courses in anatomy and physiology and is responsible for the advanced cadaver dissection courses at the college. When not teaching, Professor Lee can be found riding horses or hiking in the mountains with her family and pets.
Amber Marean is a professor of biology and the current co-chair of the department of biology at Pikes Peak State College. She received her B.A. in biology/chemistry from Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California. She earned her Ph.D. in molecular biology from University of Colorado Anschutz in Aurora, Colorado. She is a recipient of an NSF grant, Creating Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experiences in Gene Editing for All Students, which helps bring CRISPR to community college students throughout the United States. She teaches undergraduate courses in introductory biology, microbiology, and genetics. Dr. Marean loves hiking and spending time in the mountains and visiting Disney parks with family and friends.
This textbook is designed for students with no prior science background who are fascinated by forensics. It introduces foundational biology concepts, starting with the essentials like chemistry, properties of water, organic molecules, and cell structure, then gradually builds into body systems and organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and animals that are critical in forensic investigations. Basic concepts covered in the biology foundation chapters are then applied to real-world forensic techniques, including blood spatter analysis, fingerprinting, DNA profiling, tissue decomposition, osteology, and entomology. By blending biology fundamentals with practical forensic applications, this book transforms complex science into an engaging, accessible journey for beginners eager to explore the biology behind solving crimes.
Chapter 1 The History of Forensics
Introduction
Key Characters in the History of Forensic Science
Conclusion
Chapter 2 Introduction to Biology
Introduction
Seven Aspects of Life
Order
Energy Processing
Growth and Development
Response to Environment
Reproduction
Regulation
Evolutionary Adaptation
Levels of Biological Organization
The Cell as the Smallest Unit of Life
Scientific Method
Observations
Hypothesis Testing
Controls in Scientific Experimentation
Scientific Theory
Conclusion
Chapter 3 Introduction to Cells
Introduction
Types of Cells
Common Features of All Cells
Plasma Membrane
Ribosomes
Deoxyribonucleic Acid
Cytosol and Cytoplasm
Prokaryotic Cells
Bacterial Cell Wall
Glycocalyx
Fimbriae and Pili
Eukaryotic Cells
Nucleus
Rough and Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum
Golgi Apparatus
Mitochondria and Chloroplasts
Vacuoles, Vesicles, Lysosomes, and Peroxisomes
Cytoskeleton
Centrosomes and Basal Bodies
Flagella and Cilia
Eukaryotic Cell Wall
Extracellular Matrix
Cell Junctions
Conclusion
Chapter 4 Atoms, Bonding, and the Properties of Water
Introduction
Introduction to Atoms
Introduction to Covalent, Ionic, and Hydrogen Bonds
Covalent Bonding
Ionic Bonding
Polar Covalent Bonding
Hydrogen Bonding
Introduction to the Properties of Water
Conclusion
Chapter 5 Introduction to Macromolecules, DNA Structure and Function
Introduction
Types of Macromolecules
Overview
Carbohydrates
Lipids
Proteins
Nucleic Acids
DNA and RNA Structure and Function
DNA Structure and Function
Ribonucleic Acid Structure and Function
Chromatin and Chromosomes
Purpose of Chromatin
Chromosome Structure and Function
Chromosome Numbers and Ploidy
Autosomes and Sex Chromosomes
Extranuclear DNA
Endosymbiotic Theory
Mitochondrial DNA
Chloroplast DNA
Plasmids
Conclusion
Chapter 6 Tissue Organization and Organ Systems
Introduction to the Four Tissue Types
Characteristic and Function of the Four Tissue Types
Epithelial Tissues
Characteristics of All Epithelial Tissues
Nine Types of Epithelial Tissues
Connective Tissue
Muscle Tissue
Neural Tissue
Introduction to the Types and Function of Organ Systems
Integumentary System
Cardiovascular System
Respiratory System
Skeletal System
Endocrine System
Muscular System
Digestive System
Lymphatic System
Nervous System
Urinary System
Reproductive System
Conclusion
Chapter 7 Changes to Soft Tissues Upon Death
The Stages of Decomposition
Four Stages of Fresh Decay (First 3 Days)
Pallor Mortis
Algor Mortis
Livor Mortis
Rigor Mortis
Bloat Stage (2–6 Days)
Active Decay (5–11 Days)
Advanced Decay (10–24 Days)
Dry Remains Stage (24 or More Days)
Unique Decay Conditions
Adipocere
Mummification
Conditions that Affect the Stage and Rate of Decomposition
Environmental Conditions
Sunlight
Containers and Wrappings
Water or Ground Burial
Wounds and Infection
Chemical Exposure
Burning of Remains
Conclusion
Chapter 8 Fingerprints, Hair, and Their Use for Identification
Introduction to Fingerprints
Fingerprint Patterns
Loop Patterns
Whorl Patterns
Arch Patterns
Analyzing Fingerprints
Analysis
Comparison
Evaluation
Verification
Collecting Fingerprints
Introduction to Hair
Anatomy and Growth of Hair
Transfer of Hair
Detection of Toxins in the Hair
Impressions of Other Objects
Conclusion
Chapter 9 Introduction to Blood and Detection Methods
Introduction
Blood Composition and Cell Types
Whole Blood and Its Components
Red Blood Cells
White Blood Cells
Introduction to Blood Typing
Important Components
Blood Type Genotypes
Rhesus Factor
Additional Blood Antigens
Introduction to Blood Detection Methods
Luminol Test
Kastle–Meyer Test
Conclusion
Chapter 10 Bloodstain Patterns and Analysis
Important Terminology When Examining Bloodstains
The Three Bloodstain Categories
Properties of Blood as it Relates to a Bloodstain Pattern
Introduction to Pattern from a Straight Blood Drop
Anatomy of a Bloodstain
Introduction to Passive Stain Patterns and Drip Trails
Passive Drip Trails
Flow Pattern
Pools and Saturation Stains
Transfer Marks
Introduction to Blood Spatter
Secondary Mechanism Spatter
Impact Spatter
Cast-Off and Projection Blood Spatter
Conclusion
Chapter 11 Bone Anatomy and Composition
Introduction to the Function of Bones
Levers
Protection
Storage
Blood Cell Production
Introduction to the Composition of Bones
Anatomy of Bone Tissue
Introduction to Bone Cells
Classification of Bones by Structural Class and Shape
Bone Healing and Lasting Evidence of Healing
Conclusion
Chapter 12 Anatomical Identification of Bones Including Race, Sex, and Age
Introduction
Directional Terminology
Major Bony Landmarks Found Common to All Bones
Introduction and Landmarks in the Axial Skeleton
The Skull
Vertebral Column
Thoracic Cage
Introduction and Landmarks of the Appendicular Skeleton
Pectoral Girdle
Humerus
Ulna
Radius
Carpals
Metacarpals
Phalanges
Pelvic Girdle
Lower Limb of the Body
Distinguishing Sex Based on Bone Differences
Distinguishing Age Based on Differences in the Bones
Conclusion
Chapter 13 Wounds: Patterns and Mechanism to Tissues
Introduction to Kinetic Wounds and Non-Kinetic Wounds
Blunt Force Wounds
Introduction to Sharp Force Traumas
Incised Wounds
Stab Wounds
Introduction to Asphyxia
Mechanism of Action
Signs of Asphyxia
Positional Asphyxia
Introduction to Firearm Wounds
Types of Firearms and Ammunition
Factors Affecting Firearm Wound Appearance
Bullet Wounds in Bones
Introduction to Bite Marks
Introduction to Burns
Introduction to Defense Wounds
Conclusion
Chapter 14 Urine, Feces, Saliva, and Semen: Identification and Detection
Introduction to Urine and Feces
Liver Detoxification and Production of Urine and Feces
Feces Analysis
Urine Analysis
Introduction to Saliva
Salivary Gland Function and Location
Saliva and Secreter Status
Introduction to Semen
Components and Production of Semen
Techniques for Isolating Semen Cells
Conclusion
Chapter 15 DNA Replication
Introduction
Enzymes Are Key Proteins in the Cell
Enzyme Components
Enzyme Environmental Factors
DNA Replication Initiation
Origin of Replication and Replication Forks
DNA Replication Extension
Single-Stranded Binding Proteins
Primase and DNA Polymerase III
Directionality of Deoxyribonucleic Acid
Directionality of DNA Polymerase
Leading and Lagging Strands
DNA Polymerase I and Ligase
Telomeres and Telomerase Activity
Conclusion
Chapter 16 Transcription and Translation
Introduction
The Role of RNA in Gene Expression
RNA Structure and Types
Gene Expression Components and Overview
Gene Expression in Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes
Triplet Codons and the Genetic Code
Directionality of Gene Expression
The Genetic Code Is Redundant and Universal
Transcription: Copying the DNA into RNA
Initiation of Transcription
Elongation of Transcription
Termination of Transcription
Eukaryotic RNA Processing
Splicing and the Spliceosome
Translation: Synthesizing the Polypeptide
Structure and Role of tRNA
Ribosome Structure
Translation Initiation
Translation Elongation
Translation Termination
Protein Folding and Function after Translation
Mutations: Alterations in the Genetic Code
Specific Types of Mutations
Causes of Mutations
Conclusion
Chapter 17 DNA Profiling in Forensics
First Case Solved by DNA Evidence
Overview of Genetics and Inheritance
DNA Structure and Function in Forensics
DNA Repeats: Short Tandem Repeats, Variable Number Tandem Repeats, and Satellite DNA
Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) and the Combined DNA Index System
Mutations and Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Forensics
Mitochondrial DNA and Its Function in Forensics
Conclusion
Chapter 18 Biotechnology in Forensics
Introduction
DNA Collection and Contamination Control
DNA Transfer and Trace Evidence
Polymerase Chain Reaction
Gel Electrophoresis
Capillary Electrophoresis
DNA Sequencing
Wildlife DNA and DNA Barcoding
Conclusion
Chapter 19 Introduction to the Domains of Life
Introduction
The Role of Taxonomy and Phylogeny in Organizing Life
Classifications and the Initiation of Binomial Nomenclature
The Science of Phylogeny
The Theory of Evolution
Contributions of Charles Darwin
Natural Selection and the Role in Evolution
The Role of 16S rRNA in the Three-Domain System
The Three Domains of Life
Introduction to Domain Archaea
Introduction to Domain Bacteria
Introduction to Domain Eukarya
Conclusion
Chapter 20 Domain Bacteria: Life and Death at the Microscopic Level
Introduction
Main Characteristics of Bacteria
Shared Bacterial Characteristics
Shapes and Arrangements of Bacteria
Energy Production through Cellular Respiration and Fermentation
Bacterial Identification and Significance
The Human Microbiome and Necrobiome
Locations of Microbiomes
Human Microbiome Project
The Necrobiome
Bacterial Agents of Bioterrorism
Anthrax
Botulism
Plague
Conclusion
Chapter 21 Kingdom Fungi: Decomposition and Poisons
Introduction
Cell Maintenance: Energy Requirements and Cell Division
Phototrophs, Chemotrophs, and Saprotrophs
Mitosis and Meiosis
Main Characteristics of Fungi
Important Phyla of Kingdom Fungi
Basidiomycota
Ascomycota
Zygomycota
Forensic Mycology: A Developing Science
Mycotoxins
Aflatoxin
Ochratoxin A
Ergot
Fusariotoxins
Mushroom Poisoning
Conclusion
Chapter 22 Kingdom Animalia: Species and Application in Forensic Biology
Introduction
An Overview of Kingdom Animalia
General Characteristics of Kingdom Animalia
Embryonic Development and Germ Layers
Symmetry and Body Plans
Invertebrates: A Major Group of Kingdom Animalia
Characteristics of Insects
Life Cycle of Flies
Forensic Entomology in Criminal Investigations
Conclusion
Chapter 23 Careers and Future Directions in Forensic Biology
Introduction
Careers in Forensic Biology
Forensic Pathologist
Forensic Toxicologist
Forensic Entomologist
Forensic Odontologist
Forensic Nurse
Forensic Scientist
Next Steps in Forensic Biology
Microbial Forensics
Mitochondrial DNA Databases
Use of Genetic Databases
Epigenetics
The Use of Artificial Intelligence
Conclusion
Bibliography
Glossary
Tracy Lee is an associate professor of biology and the current co-chair of the department of biology at Pikes Peak State College. She received her B.A. in exercise science and teaching certificate from Metro State University in Denver, Colorado. She earned her M.S. in biology with an emphasis in anatomy and physiology from the University of Nebraska Kearney. She teaches undergraduate courses in anatomy and physiology and is responsible for the advanced cadaver dissection courses at the college. When not teaching, Professor Lee can be found riding horses or hiking in the mountains with her family and pets.
Amber Marean is a professor of biology and the current co-chair of the department of biology at Pikes Peak State College. She received her B.A. in biology/chemistry from Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California. She earned her Ph.D. in molecular biology from University of Colorado Anschutz in Aurora, Colorado. She is a recipient of an NSF grant, Creating Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experiences in Gene Editing for All Students, which helps bring CRISPR to community college students throughout the United States. She teaches undergraduate courses in introductory biology, microbiology, and genetics. Dr. Marean loves hiking and spending time in the mountains and visiting Disney parks with family and friends.