Summary
Pamela Sandstrom is a Teaching Associate Professor in the Department of Biology. She is passionate about supporting students as an undergraduate instructor and academic advisor. After earning a degree in Physiology at the University of California, Davis, she became a Certified Ophthalmology Technician. From 2002-2007, she completed research on cytochrome P450 enzymes at the University of Nevada, Reno to earn her doctorate in Biochemistry. Since then, she has focused on biology education and how students learn and engage with complex scientific concepts, often seeking to demonstrate their relevance to human health. Her extensive teaching experience has reached over 13,000 undergraduates in courses ranging from introductory biology to advanced molecular genetics.
Dr. Sandstrom fosters an inclusive learning environment where students are encouraged to be proactive and pursue their academic and professional goals. She promotes active learning by integrating technology and innovative teaching methods, including a robust Biology Peer Instruction Program. Since 2008, hundreds of peer instructors have led over 1,300 discussion groups and served as Learning Assistants (LAs) helping with challenging questions during class. Dr. Sandstrom is deeply committed to building a strong community of learners. She is especially proud to have mentored many high-achieving graduates throughout their academic journey. These include seventeen Westfall scholars and eight University Senior Scholars.
Education
- University of Nevada, Reno, Ph.D., Biochemistry 2002-2007
- University of California, Davis, Bachelor of Science in Physiology 1994-1998
Presentations on scholarship of teaching and learning
- “Peer Instruction Pandemic Adaptations Helped Us Improve Teaching and Learning.” P. Sandstrom and E. Pravosudova, poster presentation, Biology Leadership Community (BLC), Raleigh, NC, April 2023.
- “Peer Instruction and Active Learning Enhance Student Success.” P. Sandstrom and E. Pravosudova, poster presentation, Biology Leadership Community (BLC), Henderson, NV, March 2019.
- “Getting the Most of Your College Experience.” P. Sandstrom, oral presentation, Nevada HOSA State Leadership Conference, Reno, NV, March 2018 and 2017.
- "Practical Tips for Teaching Genetics: Engaging Students and Improving Performance." P. Sandstrom, webinar, Pearson Learning Makes Us, February 2016 and October 2015.
- “Biology Discussion Groups at the University of Nevada.” P. Sandstrom and E. V. Pravosudova, poster presentation, 6th International Learning Assistant (LA) Workshop, Boulder, CO, November 2014.
Publications
- P. Sandstrom, M.D. Ginzel, J. C. Bearfield, W. H. Welch, G. J. Blomquist and C. Tittiger (2008). Myrcene hydroxylases do not determine enantiomeric composition of pheromonal ipsdienol in Ips spp. J. Chem. Ecol. 34, 1584-1592
- P. Sandstrom (2007). Monoterpenoid Metabolism by Bark Beetle Cytochromes P450 Dissertation. 230 pages.
- P. Sandstrom, W. H. Welch, G. J. Blomquist and C. Tittiger (2006). Functional expression of a bark beetle cytochrome P450 that hydroxylates myrcene to ipsdienol. Insect Biochem. Molec. Biol. 36, 835-845.
Main courses taught
- BIOL 495 – Peer Leadership in Biology
- BIOL 304 - Molecular Genetics
- BIOL 300 - Principles of Genetics
- BIOL 190A - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology
- BIOL 189A - Fundamentals of Life Science
Awards
- 2024 Paul and Judy Bible University Teaching Excellence Award
- 2021 Nevada System of Higher Education Regents' Teaching Award
- 2019 Alan Bible Teaching Excellence Award
- 2017 Nevada System of Higher Education Regents' and University of Nevada, Reno's Undergraduate Academic Advisor Awards
- 2017 Faculty International Development Award (FIDA) to participate in University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) program in San Ramón, Costa Rica