Auburn University's faculty continues to change and grow in number and talent as the University welcomes Dr. Marie Wooten to the distinguished assembly of deans.
Wooten, named COSAM dean, studied microbiology at the University of Memphis. She earned her doctorate from Texas Woman's University in cell and molecular biosciences and her postdoctoral training at Cold Springs Harbor Laboratory.
"I obtained a bachelor's degree in 1978, Ph.D. in 1984, followed by three years of postdoctoral studies and have been in higher education faculty position since 1987," Wooten said.
She is currently a professor of biological sciences and COSAM. Wooten has been an important part of COSAM for many years during which she has earned a reputation as a great instructor.
She gained interest in these subjects and accepted the job offer because of the "quality of the undergraduate and graduate students, strength of our academic programs and passion of the faculty for research and discovery."
Wooten explained the students have created a passion for analysis and modernism. In that light, she said new online courses will be a change she implements to COSAM.
Wooten is known by the students as a scientist, an aide and academic administrator.
She added, "I will put in place mechanisms for more effective communication."
Wooten is a firm believer in outreach and student training and co-founded the Institute for Women in Sciences and Engineers. She has also headed up associate dean for research in the college starting in 2000.
Even with all this on her plate, she still finds time for research, which includes cellular and molecular developmental neurobiology and neurodegeneration.
In addition, Wooten is an affiliate of the National Science Foundation ADVANCE program, which centers on boosting distinction in the STEM field.
Her research receives finances on an endless basis. She was recently given $1.3 million for four years by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
"The interest in sharing my passion for research and acquisition of new knowledge led me to a university," Wooten said, explaining why she loves teaching. "In turn, I have enjoyed building programs and working with faculty and students to assist them with their academic goals. Becoming a dean was a logical progression in my career path."
Wooten's predecessor, Dean Stewart Schneller, was in the position for 17 years. Schneller is returning to the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry where he will engage in teaching and research.
"I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the next dean of COSAM," Wooten said.
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