Melissa de Waal
Melissa de Waal
Assistant Professor of Microbiology, Pre-professional Advisor
Department of Biological Sciences
Office Location: S-29 (interior)
Courses
- Introduction to Molecules, Cells, and Genes
- Microbiology
- Biology Seminar
- Junior Mentored Research
- Senior Mentored Research
Research
- Host-microbe interactions
- Bats
- Natural history
- Ecology
- Evolution
Education
- BS, Fordham University
- MS, Fordham University
- PhD, American Museum of Natural History
Academic Profile
Dr. de Waal’s research focuses on the symbiotic relationship between bats and their gut microbiomes, investigating the ways in which gut bacteria provision bats with nutrients missing from their diets and support immune development and health. She maintains an active field program in Lamanai, Belize, and mentors students in lab work, bioinformatics, and field biology.
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