Are you passionate about physiology education and eager to take part in a thought-provoking discussion on the challenges and future of the subject?
ADInstruments, as part of Physiology Week, presents "Is Physiology Dead?," where our expert panel offers their insights and forecasts.
In recent years, molecular and genetic research has taken center stage in cardiovascular education and other fields. Has physiology, with its foundational importance in understanding human function, been left behind in favor of newer, trendier fields? Or is it more important than ever to prepare future healthcare professionals and researchers?
During this webinar, experts in the field will discuss:
- The current state of physiology education in academic institutions
- Why physiology is essential in understanding complex biological systems
- The integration of physiology with emerging fields like molecular and cellular biology
Strategies to modernize and revitalize the teaching of physiology
Who is it for?
Educators and researchers looking to address key concerns and get insights from those in the know.
Speakers:
Amara Agugua
Scientific Education Specialist
ADInstruments
With a passion for innovative teaching practices, Amara works closely with educators to integrate ADInstruments' tools and solutions into curricula, enhancing the learning experience for students. Her expertise lies in bridging the gap between complex physiological concepts and practical, hands-on learning to create dynamic, interactive learning environments. Amara's work supports educators in delivering more engaging and effective physiology education, making her an essential voice on the panel discussing the future of physiology education.
Dr Michele Sweeney
Lecturer and Module Leader
Newcastle University
Michele Sweeney, a dedicated physiologist and lecturer at Newcastle University's School of Biomedical, Nutritional and Sport Sciences, has spent over a decade guiding and inspiring the next generation of scientists. Specializing in physiology, she plays a pivotal role in the Physiological Sciences undergraduate program, impacting students across multiple degree pathways within the school. Her academic journey began at University College Dublin, where she earned both a B.Sc. (Hons) in Physiology and a PhD with a focus on vascular physiology. Michele then expanded her expertise through postdoctoral research at prestigious institutions, including the University of California San Diego, Columbia University in New York, the University of Manchester, and Newcastle University. Her work on vascular and cardiac function in these roles laid a strong foundation of knowledge and experience that now elevates her teaching and mentorship at Newcastle.
Dr Gordon Cooper
Senior University Teacher
University of Sheffield
Gordon brings a unique blend of research and teaching experience to our panel. He began his career in Leeds, working in Dr. Malcolm Hunter’s lab, before moving to Yale for three years in Professor Walter Boron’s group. After returning to the UK, he worked in Manchester under Craig Smith and then joined the University of Sheffield in 2000. His research has focused on epithelial and renal physiology, particularly the transport of gases and small solutes across membranes. In 2019, Gordon transitioned to a teaching-focused role, where he led a successful CATE bid in 2020 to enhance employability within the Biomedical Science curriculum. He has also been instrumental in founding the Northern Biosciences Teaching Network, which connects teaching-focused staff to exchange ideas and improve pedagogy. With expertise in both research and teaching, Gordon offers a comprehensive perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing physiology today.
Dr Liam Bagley
Senior Lecturer in Physiology and Pharmacology
Manchester Metropolitan University
Liam is a Senior Lecturer in Physiology at Manchester Metropolitan University, where he leads undergraduate programmes in physiology and biosciences. He teaches and assesses physiology to both life science and nursing students at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Liam’s educational approach focuses on enhancing student learning through simulation of real-world physiological environments, integrating classroom knowledge with practical, applied scenarios using X-Reality, storytelling, and technical skill training. His innovative teaching methods aim to bridge the gap between theory and practice, making him a valuable contributor to the panel on Is Physiology Dead?