Dr. Karen Symes

Biography

Karen Symes is an Associate Professor at Boston University's Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, specializing in Biochemistry and Cell Biology. She earned her PhD from the National Institute of Medical Research and a BSc from the University of Sussex. Dr. Symes has played a vital role in shaping the educational mission of the Department of Biochemistry, focusing on the redesign of the PhD curriculum to foster interdisciplinary teaching and learning. She is actively involved in developing foundational skills in students through various curricular innovations, including small group discussions and workshops centered on emerging technologies. Her research primarily investigates the molecular mechanisms of cell motility, crucial for normal biological processes such as embryonic development and wound healing. Alongside her teaching and research responsibilities, she serves as the co-Chair of the Steering Committee overseeing the Foundations in Biomedical Sciences (FiBS) curriculum and acts as an Assistant Dean in the Office of Student Affairs. Her commitment to mentoring and student development is evident in her role as a primary mentor for graduate students in the Graduate Medical Sciences program.

Research Interests

Experience