Teaching

Since arriving in China, I have had the opportunity to design and teach courses at both the undergraduate and master’s levels. I developed a course for undergraduate students focused on the biology and ecology of testate amoebae, as well as an advanced course for master’s students centered on the macrosystem of eukaryotes. In addition to these courses, I created three specialized modules within a larger master’s program, allowing students to explore specific topics related to my field of expertise in greater depth. In addition to designing and teaching courses, I have mentored several BSc students on their theses. Furthermore, my students have successfully presented 15 posters at international conferences.

Course: Biology and Ecology of Testate Amoebae

Degree: 3rd Year BSc Students
Language: English
Teaching Methods: Lectures, Seminars, Fieldwork, Lab Practice

This course explores testate amoebae, a diverse group of unicellular eukaryotes found in freshwater, marine, and terrestrial environments. These organisms are characterized by their protoplasts enclosed within shells, with their structural features first described by early researchers despite the limitations of optical microscopy. Although known since the early 19th century, many fundamental questions about their structure, behavior, reproduction, and feeding remain unanswered. The course addresses these gaps and encourages engagement in original research that contributes to the understanding of these fascinating organisms. The course investigates the lesser-known aspects of testate amoebae, fostering a deeper understanding of eukaryotic microorganisms and their ecological significance. It also covers the challenges of identifying testate amoebae, emphasizing pseudocryptic and polymorphic species. Through the use of light and scanning electron microscopy, a variety of samples from marine, freshwater, moss, and soil habitats are examined, enhancing skills in recognizing the intricate diversity within this group. This course is ideal for students interested in general biology and biodiversity, offering valuable insights into the complexities of microbial life.

Course: Macrosystem of Eukaryotes

Degree: 4th year BSc students
Language: English
Teaching methods: lectures, seminars

This course explores testate amoebae, a diverse group of unicellular eukaryotes found in freshwater, marine, and terrestrial environments. These organisms are characterized by their protoplasts enclosed within shells, with their structural features first described by early researchers despite the limitations of optical microscopy. Although known since the early 19th century, many fundamental questions about their structure, behavior, reproduction, and feeding remain unanswered. The course addresses these gaps and encourages engagement in original research that contributes to the understanding of these fascinating organisms. The course investigates the lesser-known aspects of testate amoebae, fostering a deeper understanding of eukaryotic microorganisms and their ecological significance. It also covers the challenges of identifying testate amoebae, emphasizing pseudocryptic and polymorphic species. Through the use of light and scanning electron microscopy, a variety of samples from marine, freshwater, moss, and soil habitats are examined, enhancing skills in recognizing the intricate diversity within this group. This course is ideal for students interested in general biology and biodiversity, offering valuable insights into the complexities of microbial life.

Mentorship

My commitment to student development extends beyond classroom instruction. I have mentored three bachelor’s students on their thesis projects, guiding them through the research process and helping them refine their academic skills. This mentorship has proven fruitful; my students have actively participated in various academic events, showcasing their work and gaining valuable experience. Notably, my students presented their research at an international biology conference in Shenzhen, China, where one student received an award for the best student poster. Additionally, at the international conference focused on testate amoebae in Madrid in 2023, two of my students presented ten posters, contributing significantly to the global scientific community.