Meiko Thompson, Ph.D.
Kenner,LA
Summary
An accomplished educator with a proven track record at Southern University At New Orleans, enhancing student engagement and academic success through innovative instructional strategies and curriculum development. Expert in classroom administration and leveraging distance learning tools, demonstrated by significant student performance and retention improvements. Skilled in academic advising and training, with a focus on results. Associate Professor with sixteen years of experience successfully contributing to the curriculum development and delivery of Forensic Science, Biology, and Environmental Science. Driven to contribute to program outcomes by facilitating engagement and supporting learning objectives. Enthusiastic professional with a background in academic advisement.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certificate
Work History
Associate Professor
Southern University at New Orleans
08.2024 - Current
- Integrated real-world examples into lessons, making course content more relevant and engaging for students.
- Mentored students and advised on career paths, degree requirements and post-graduate education options.
- Contributed to developing a comprehensive curriculum, ensuring alignment with state standards and academic goals.
- Served on academic committees, contributing insights and expertise to enhance institutional policies and practices.
- Organized extracurricular activities that enriched students' educational experience while promoting community involvement.
- Updated curricula and lesson plans for primary instructors, researched developments in relevant fields, and updated materials to reflect the most recent data and statistics.
- Maintained regular office hours to provide struggling students with additional course help.
- Instructed and evaluated students in classroom in alignment with college mission by incorporating innovative teaching and learning strategies.
Research Scientist, Project Investigator
DHS/ORISE
06.2024 - 08.2024
- Utilized expertise in microbiology, forensic science, and environmental science to help calculate PMI based on decomposition.
- Mentored two undergraduate students during project
- Performed preliminary and exploratory data analysis for PMI and microorganism studies in Forensic Microbiology and Environmental Forensics.
- Streamlined research processes to meet tight deadlines for multiple projects.
- Maintained a safe working environment by enforcing strict adherence to laboratory safety guidelines.
- Evaluated new technologies for potential integration into existing research processes, driving continuous
- Documented and reported test results after making graphical solutions and representations.
- Designed experiments using sophisticated statistical techniques, yielding robust results that supported key hypotheses.
- Identified opportunities for innovation by staying abreast of emerging trends in the scientific community.
Assistant Professor
Southern University At New Orleans
07.2018 - 07.2024
- Contributed to planning appropriate and engaging lessons for both classroom and distance learning applications.
- Built strong rapport with students through class discussions and academic advisement of 40 students.
- Proctored exams and provided remediation for learning improvement goals.
- Evaluated student performance through comprehensive assessments, identifying areas of improvement and providing targeted feedback for growth.
- Created materials and exercises to illustrate application of course concepts.
- Collaborated with faculty members on Forensic Science, Biology, and other interdisciplinary projects.
- Mentored students and communicated internship and employment opportunities.
- Evaluated and supervised student activities and performance levels to provide reports on academic progress.
- Contributed to campus activities to promote positive university image.
- Applied innovative teaching methods to encourage student learning objectives.
- Revised course objectives, course materials, instructional and assessment strategies for Forensic Science courses.
- Collaborated with colleagues on curriculum revision, evaluation of course syllabi and lesson plans for Forensic Science curriculum.
- Helped struggling students by providing support outside of classrooms and consistently checking in on progress
Certifying Scientist
Abbott Toxicology
12.2017 - Current
- Gathered and evaluated quality assurance data to identify issues and improve process efficiency.
- Performed data analysis and interpretation of results from clinical trials and epidemiological studies.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in team environment
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend and holiday shifts
Adjunct Professor
Delgado Community College
08.2017 - 07.2018
- Used exams, quizzes and assignments to assess student comprehension.
- Graded quizzes, tests, homework, and projects to provide students with timely academic progress information and feedback.
- Engaged students with insightful and compelling classroom discussion of topics relevant to coursework to boost student learning and retention.
- Worked with colleagues and administrators to create robust education programs.
- Demonstrated superb organization skills in classroom and with student records with specific attention to school policies for documentation.
- Encouraged class discussions by building discussions into lessons, actively soliciting input, asking open-ended questions and using techniques to track student participation.
Extraction Technician
Alere Toxicology Services
05.2017 - 12.2017
- Verified PPE integrity and operation before embarking on daily journeys to reach extraction sites.
- Worked with extraction crew to carry out safest possible operations and meet production targets.
- Performed quality assurance through analytical testing for quality, consistency and efficacy.
- Followed policies and procedures for daily operations to fully comply with state regulations
- Kept equipment working properly with regular upkeep and planned preventive maintenance
- Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications
Project Manger
Knox County Schools
01.2015 - 06.2016
- Monitored project performance to identify areas of improvement and make adjustments.
- Managed projects from procurement to commission.
- Identified plans and resources required to meet project goals and objectives.
- Coordinated with cross-functional teams to resolve project issues and mitigate risks.
- Reported regularly to managers on project budget, progress and technical problems.
- Provided detailed technical and operational direction in project challenges, consistently meeting deliverables according to deadlines.
- Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for large projects.
Adjunct Professor
National College
06.2011 - 03.2016
- Used exams, quizzes and assignments to assess student comprehension.
- Graded quizzes, tests, homework, and projects to provide students with timely academic progress information and feedback.
- Engaged students with insightful and compelling classroom discussion of topics relevant to coursework to boost student learning and retention.
- Worked with colleagues and administrators to create robust education programs.
Education Project Manager
ORAU
12.2012 - 12.2014
- Verified quality of deliverables and conformance to specifications before submitting to clients.
- Monitored project progress, identified risks and took corrective action as needed.
- Managed projects from procurement to commission.
- Negotiated and managed third-party contracts related to project deliverables.
- Provided detailed technical and operational direction in project challenges, consistently meeting deliverables according to deadlines.
- Provided detailed project status updates to stakeholders and executive management.
- Maintained open communication by presenting regular updates on project status to customers.
Adjunct Professor
Strayer University
10.2011 - 12.2014
- Taught Biology and Physical courses, providing instruction to up to 20 undergraduate students per course.
- Used exams, quizzes, and assignments to assess student comprehension.
- Graded quizzes, tests, homework, and projects to provide students with timely academic progress information and feedback.
- Engaged students with insightful and compelling classroom discussions of topics relevant to coursework to boost student learning and retention.
- Worked with colleagues and administrators to create robust education programs.
Postdoctoral Research Associate
University Of Tennessee, Knoxville
06.2010 - 12.2011
- Leveraged interpersonal and communication skills to mentor PhD, graduate, and undergraduate students.
- Designed research projects and alternative approaches and discussed results with the professor.
- Collaborated with five multidisciplinary team members to accomplish soil microbiology research goals.
- Maintained accurate records of research findings and provided statistical analysis of data results.
- Taught Soil Microbiology Lectures and Lab courses to 15 students.
- Maintained records of research findings with analysis and evaluation of results.
- Conducted independent microbial ecology research and development to attain short and long-term objectives.
- Contributed to and actively participated in research conception, design, and execution to address defined problems.
Adjunct Professor
Calhoun Community College
08.2007 - 08.2010
- Taught Biology courses, providing instruction to up to 30 undergraduate students.
- Used exams, quizzes, and assignments to assess student comprehension.
- Graded quizzes, tests, homework, and projects to provide students with timely academic progress information and feedback.
- Engaged students with insightful and compelling classroom discussions of topics relevant to coursework to boost student learning and retention.
- Worked with colleagues and administrators to create robust education programs.
- Led undergraduate course on Biology and developed lesson plans and assignments to help students meet key learning objectives and goals.
Graduate Research Assistant
Alabama A&M University
01.2005 - 05.2010
- Utilized advanced statistical software to analyze large datasets, uncovering key insights for informed decision-making.
- Managed multiple research projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion and adherence to high-quality standards.
- Recorded data and maintained source documentation following good documentation practices.
- Partnered with the research team to strategize research and develop specific plans.
- Drafted technical papers and other documentation for use by research leadership.
- Met regularly with the research team to identify issues and maintain study alignment with objectives.
- Performed statistical, qualitative, and quantitative analysis.
- Gathered, reviewed, and summarized literature from scientific journals such as SciFinder and PubMed and produced graphs and other scientific calculations using MS Excel.
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Alabama A&M University
08.2007 - 12.2009
- Taught Soil Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology college-level courses for over 15 students.
- Planned and delivered lectures and course materials to communicate course content and provide students with subject matter knowledge.
- Kept accurate records of student performance to track student progress and provide feedback on performance.
- Advised and mentored students on navigating academic and professional goals with support and guidance.
- Documented attendance and completed assignments to maintain full class and student records.
Graduate Research Assistant
Tuskegee University
08.2002 - 07.2004
- Utilized advanced statistical software to analyze large datasets, uncovering key insights for informed decision-making.
- Participated in regular meetings with project supervisors, providing progress updates and discussing potential challenges or areas for improvement.
- Assisted in manuscript preparation, contributing to the publication of influential articles in peer-reviewed journals.
- Maintained and calibrated equipment for precision and accuracy.
- Recorded data and maintained source documentation following good documentation practices.
- Partnered with the research team to strategize research and develop specific plans.
- Drafted technical papers and other documentation for use by research leadership.
- Planned, modified, and executed research techniques, procedures, and tests.
- Presented results to field experts at the Soil Science Society of America.
- Gathered, organized, and entered data into SAS and SPSS.
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Tuskegee University
08.2003 - 05.2004
- Taught Biology and Environmental Science college-level courses for over 25 students.
- Planned and delivered lectures and course materials to communicate course content and provide students with subject matter knowledge.
- Checked assignments, proctored tests, and provided grades according to university standards.
- Kept accurate records of student performance to track student progress and provide feedback on performance.
- Developed strong rapport with students through open communication channels, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
Skills
- Student Engagement
- Classroom Administration
- Instructional Strategies
- Student Recruitment and Retention
- Continuing Education
- Student Records Management
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Curriculum Development
- Distance Learning Tools
- Training and Development
- Academic Advising
- Mentoring students
Education
Ph.D. - Plant And Soil Science
Alabama A & M University
Normal, AL05.2010
Master of Science - Forensic Science
National University
San Diego, CA05.2025
Master of Science - Environmental Science
Tuskegee University
Tuskegee, AL08.2004
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Tuskegee University
Tuskegee, AL05.2001
Career Diploma - Forensic Science
Ashworth College
Norcross, GA05.2022
Timeline
Associate Professor
Southern University at New Orleans
08.2024 - Current
Research Scientist, Project Investigator
DHS/ORISE
06.2024 - 08.2024
Assistant Professor
Southern University At New Orleans
07.2018 - 07.2024
Certifying Scientist
Abbott Toxicology
12.2017 - Current
Adjunct Professor
Delgado Community College
08.2017 - 07.2018
Extraction Technician
Alere Toxicology Services
05.2017 - 12.2017
Project Manger
Knox County Schools
01.2015 - 06.2016
Education Project Manager
ORAU
12.2012 - 12.2014
Adjunct Professor
Strayer University
10.2011 - 12.2014
Adjunct Professor
National College
06.2011 - 03.2016
Postdoctoral Research Associate
University Of Tennessee, Knoxville
06.2010 - 12.2011
Adjunct Professor
Calhoun Community College
08.2007 - 08.2010
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Alabama A&M University
08.2007 - 12.2009
Graduate Research Assistant
Alabama A&M University
01.2005 - 05.2010
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Tuskegee University
08.2003 - 05.2004
Graduate Research Assistant
Tuskegee University
08.2002 - 07.2004
Ph.D. - Plant And Soil Science
Alabama A & M University
Master of Science - Forensic Science
National University
Master of Science - Environmental Science
Tuskegee University
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Tuskegee University
Career Diploma - Forensic Science
Ashworth College
Certification
- Safeguarding Public Health with Data and Expertise Training - July 2024
- The Role of Comprehensive Medicolegal Death Investigation as part of a Public Health Improvement Strategy, CFSRE - March 2024
- Introduction to Data Wrangling and Analysis Using R, All of Us Research Program - February 2024
- Bloodborne Pathogens, National Health Provider Solutions - January 2024
- Data Science Instructor, IBM - December 2023
- An Introduction to Investigative Genetic Genealogy- From Crime Scene to Courtroom, CFSRE - December 2023
- DNA Amplification for Forensic Analysts, National Institutes of Justice - July 2023
- DNA Extraction and Quantitation for Forensics Analysts, National Institutes of Justice - July 2023
- Data Science, IBM - January 2023
- Intro to R and Data Visualization, All of Us Research Academy - October 2022
- Inclusive and Ethical Leadership, USF Corporate Training and Professional Education, June 2022
- Block Chain, IBM - May 2022
- Enterprise Design Thinking, IBM- May 2022
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace, USF Corporate Training, and Professional Education - May 2021
- DNA Evidence Collection in Grouping Sexual Assault Cases: Practice Implications for SANEs, International Association of Forensic Nurses - February 2020
Affiliations
International Alliance of Clinical and Forensic Toxicologists 2020
National Science Teachers Association 2013
Alpha Kappa Mu National Honor Society 2009
American Society of Microbiology 2004
Society of Women Soil Scientist 2004
Soil Science Society of America 2003
Golden Key International Honor Society 1999
Beta Kappa Chi 1999
Grants
- Decompositional Impact on Microbial Communities: Could Petroleum Play a Role? Department of Homeland Security/ORISE. PI. Submitted September 2024. $99,985.44
- Impact of Decomposition and Petroleum on Microbial Communities. Department of Homeland Security Summer Research Team Program for Minority Serving Institutions. PI. Submitted February 2024. $55,000.00
- Expanding Curricula, Training and Outreach of Southern University at New Orleans Biology/Forensic Science, Nursing and Pre-med Undergraduate Students Under COVID-19 Response Health Equity Strategy with the LA Health Department. Co-PI. March 2023. $3.4M
- All of Us Researcher Academy, National Institutes of Health. Co-PI. Submitted March 2022. $75,000.00
- Improved Manufacturing of DNA Sequencers for Forensic Science, Louisiana Board of Regents. PI. Submitted August 2020. $5,000.00
- Importance of Microscope Manufacturing in Forensic Science, Louisiana Board of Regents. PI. Submitted. December 2019. $5,000.00
Publications and Presentations
Publication Activities
- Delaney, R., L. Mims-Devezin, A. Esmail, C, Love, M. Thompson. Creating Learner-centered and Problem-based Curriculum Design within HBCUs. Submitted May 2024.
- Thompson, M . Scientific Advances in Forensic Archeology and Anthropology: A Review. Arch & Anthropol Open Acc. 5(1). AAOA. 000621. 2023.
- Thompson, M .* and L. Mims-Devezin. Exploring the Intersection of Forensic Science Education: Bridging Forensic Anthropology and Archaeology. Arch & Anthropol Open Acc. 4(5). AAOA. 000617. 2023
Proceedings and Other Publication Activities
- Thompson, M. STEM Education: The Basis for an R and D Edge. Crops, and other Soils, Agronomy News. 2007
- Thompson, M. M. and E. Moss. Influence of Land Management on Selected Enzyme Activity. Soil Science Society of America Tri-Society Meeting Proceedings. 2007
- Thompson, M. M ., E.M. Moss, Y. Tilahun, A.M. Ibekwe, Z.N. Senwo. 2006. Soil Microbial Diversity along a Forest Profile Using PCR-DGGE. Soil Science Society of America Tri-Society Proceedings. 2006
- Moss, E.M., Y. Tilahun, M. M. Thompson, Z. Senwo. 2006. Microbial Diversity of an Agricultural Soil under Various Agronomic Conditions by PCR-Denaturant Gradient Gel Electrophoresis. Soil Science Society of America Tri-Society Proceedings. 2006
Professional Presentations
- Williams, C., Kambhampati, M., Thompson, M. Forensic Technology Center of Excellence. 2023. Acute Toxicological Effects of Copper on Palaemonetes spp. National Forensic Science Week – Graduate Research Symposium and Poster Session.
- Williams, T.G., Omojola, J., Thompson, M., Forensic Technology Center of Excellence. 2023. Forensic Study of Air Quality and COVID-19 Infection Rates. National Forensic Science Week – Graduate Research Symposium and Poster Session.
- Bornes, D., Judge-Cody, T., Thompson, M. 2023. Attitudes of COVID-19 Vaccines by Those Diagnosed with Lupus. Southern University at New Orleans Undergraduate Research Conference-Oral Presentation
- Gilmore, A., Favorite, P., Thompson, M . 2023. COVID-19 and the Impact on African American Health Status Relating to Cardiovascular System Disorders. Southern University at New Orleans Undergraduate Research Conference-Oral Presentation
- Lewis, C., Thompson, M . 2023.The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on STDs and STIs in the African American Community. Southern University at New Orleans Undergraduate Research Conference-Oral Presentation
- Thompson, M.M. 2016. Engineering from All Angles. Tennessee STEM Innovation Network. May 16-18, 2016
- Thompson, M.M., S. LoRe, R. Sneed. 2016. Garrett A. Morgan Clearinghouse: STEM in Motion. National Science Teacher Association Conference. March 31- April 3, 2016
- Thompson, M. M . 2014. The Science of Soap Making. National Organization for the Professional Development of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers Conference. September 23-28, 2014
- Thompson, M. M . and E.M. Moss. Prescribed Burning Effects on Selected Enzyme Activities. National Black Graduate Student Association Conference. March 6-8, 2008
- Thompson, M. M ., E. Moss, Y. Tilahun, A. M. Ibekwe, and Z. Senwo. 2007. Microbial Community Shifts after Fire Disturbances. American Society for Microbiology, 107th General Meeting. Toronto Canada. May 19-23, 2007
- Thompson, M. M ., E. Moss, Y. Tilahun, A. M. Ibekwe, and Z. Senwo. Soil Microbial Diversity after Forest Land Management Changes. Alabama Water Resources Conference. Auburn University, South Beach, Alabama. September 6-8, 2006
- Moss, E.M., Y. Tilahun, M. M. Thompson, and Z. Senwo. Microbial Community Structure and Diversity of an Agricultural Soil. Alabama Water Resources Conference. Auburn University, South Beach, Alabama. September 6-8, 2006
- Moss, E.M., Y. Tilahun, M. M. Thompson, and Z. Senwo. Microbial Community Structure and Diversity of an Agricultural Soil. Association of Research Directors (ARD) Symposium. Atlanta, GA. April 1-5, 2006
- Ankumah, R., M. M. Thompson, M. Durant, V. Parke, C. Williams, and P. Groffman. Influence of land use on selected soil enzyme activity and microbial diversity. Ecological Society of America Conference. August 4-12, 2005
Classes Taught
- Forensic Biology
- Forensic Biology Lab
- Forensic Microscopy
- Forensic Microscopy Lab
- General Biology I Lab
- Forensic DNA Analysis
- Forensic DNA Analysis Lab
- Forensic Drugs and Toxicology
- Forensic Drugs and Toxicology Lab
- Forensic Science Internship (2019)
- General Biology I (Online)
- General Biology I Lab (Online)
- Forensic Microbiology (Online)
- Forensic Microbiology Lab (Online)
- Environmental Forensics (Online)
- Environmental Forensics Lab (Online)
- Forensic Entomology (Online)
- Forensic Entomology Lab (Online)
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