Adam Bynum, MS

Instructor of Biology
Metz Hall, Room 403A
210-528-6759
abynum@ollusa.edu

Curriculum Vitae

Areas of Expertise

I am a computational biologist and bioinformatics scientist. I am interested in how species bounce back after a sharp decrease in population size or how invasive species grow when introduced to a new area. To do this, I create computer models that allow us to create and analyze data given what we currently know about a population. Combining simulated data with real-world collected data will enable us to fine-tune the computer models, increasing their accuracy when used on different populations.

Teaching Philosophy

My goals are to have each student be able to think critically about biology instead of just memorizing subject material. For example, rather than simply memorizing what a ribosome does, I aim for students to understand what happens if it malfunctions and what this ultimately means for the cell. The ability to critically analyze events and situations is a cornerstone of scientific research. While not every student wants to become a researcher, critical thinking is essential in virtually every career path a student may choose. Secondly, I aim to make a classroom where everyone feels valued and heard.

Outside Interests

I spend most of my time taking care of my pets. I have two birds, a fish tank, a gecko, a dog, and various insects. I am breeding and raising swordtail fish and isopods and hope to raise moths from caterpillars eventually. Besides my pets, I care for the garden on my balcony and a community garden plot. Every year my garden consists of spicy peppers, strawberries, and cucumbers.

I am also a huge Dungeons & Dragons, Magic the Gathering, and boardgames, nerd!