Top of page
Skip to main content
Main content

Patrick CaffertyTeaching Professor

Education

  • Ph.D., Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, 2006
  • M.Sc., Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, 2000
  • B.Sc., Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, 1998

Teaching Philosophy

My interest in biology began during my childhood when growing up in a rural community, I avidly bird-watched and examined creatures in the inter-tidal zones of the Atlantic Ocean.; As I learned more about biology, I became fascinated by the broad scope of the study of life from the molecular interactions within cells to the complex behavioral patterns exhibited by members of a community.; During my graduate and post-doctoral training, I had the privilege to investigate the biochemistry of proteins underlying Alzheimer’s Disease pathology, the cellular mechanisms responsible for proper wiring of the nervous system, and the evolution of myelin, an insulating material required for fast communication in vertebrate neurons.; These experiences helped solidify my love of biology and, as a lecturer of biology, I am excited to share my passion with students taking introductory biology and human physiology courses.

My specific interest in human physiology originates from my athletics background.; Since my youth, I have competed in a variety of events including cycling races and triathlons.; Over the years, I have worked with excellent coaches who provided assistance, encouragement, and helped to plan my training.; I approach classroom teaching with the qualities of these coaches in mind and I aim to guide my students through problems using active learning methods.; The ultimate goal for my classes is to make learning biology interesting, engaging, and fun.

Publications 

Headshot

Contact Information

Email
patrick.w.cafferty@emory.edu
Phone
404-727-7587
Office Location
Rollins 2011