Mentewab Ayalew

Mentewab Ayalew

As Professor and Chair of Biology at Spelman College, my work sits at the intersection of research and education, with a strong commitment to the teacher–scholar model in primarily undergraduate institutions. My research focuses on antibiotic production by soil microorganisms and resistance mechanisms in plants, often using genomic tools to address questions on host-microbiome interactions. At the same time, I view research as a powerful vehicle for student learning and actively integrate undergraduates into all aspects of the scientific process, through course-based undergraduate research (e.g. Microbiomes) or more traditional lab research experiences.

I am particularly interested in developing curricula and research experiences that prepare students for a rapidly evolving scientific landscape, where tools and technologies are continually advancing. My goal is to equip students with strong conceptual foundations alongside hands-on experience in quantitative and computational approaches, enabling them to think critically, adapt to new methods, and develop independence as emerging scientists.

I also serve as the co-director of the Living and Learning in and Interdisciplinary Networked Community of STEM Scholars (LINCS), a program initiated in fall 2015 to foster intellectual engagement and provide mentoring and development opportunities to students in STEM interested in pursuing graduate education.