I'm a biology educator and researcher with a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Cancer, and more than a decade of teaching, mentorship, and laboratory research. I'm committed to accessible, student-centered science education — connecting real-world biology with rigorous, inclusive learning. Based in Austin, Texas.
I am a student-centered biology educator with a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Cancer and over twelve years of academic research and instructional experience.
My teaching bridges abstract biological concepts with concrete, real-world health and life-science applications — building students' critical thinking, teamwork, and academic literacy. I am deeply committed to accessible, high-quality education for diverse student populations.
I am currently advancing my pedagogical training through the Harvard Bok Higher Education Teaching Certificate, focusing on evidence-based course design and inclusive STEM environments.
Molecular Biology, Genetics & Cancer — Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School
Research & teaching
Higher Education Teaching Certificate (in progress)
Based in
Student-centered instruction grounded in active, collaborative learning and real-world application — with rigorous feedback and support for every learner.
Foundational biology and molecular genetics instruction; trained and supervised 10+ undergraduate and medical students in active-learning laboratory environments.
Course and syllabus design, rubric-based assessment, Student Learning Outcomes, and alignment with THECB core objectives.
Differentiated instruction for diverse student populations, inclusive classroom design, and digital and hybrid learning tools.
Over a decade of molecular and cell biology research spanning metabolism, cardiometabolic inflammation, and cancer — with work published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation.
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals (Obesity, Muscle & Metabolism), New York area. Led therapeutic research programs and managed and developed a team of research assistants.
Columbia University (Cardiometabolic Inflammation), New York. High-impact research and competitive national research funding.
Rutgers University, New Jersey Medical School. Doctoral research in molecular biology, genetics, and cancer, with graduate teaching and laboratory instruction.
Kasikara C, et al. “Deficiency of macrophage PHACTR1 impairs efferocytosis and promotes atherosclerotic plaque necrosis.”
Journal of Clinical Investigation, 2021.
Kasikara C, et al. “The role of non-resolving inflammation in atherosclerosis.”
Journal of Clinical Investigation, 2018 (Review).
For teaching, research, or speaking inquiries, email contact@canankasikara.com, or use the form below.
