(January 19, 2010) Michael Lowder, Biology Instructor and Laboratory Coordinator for Stanly Community College (SCC), has recently co-authored an article that has been published in a national science journal; “Phylogeography of the Habronattus amicus species complex (Araneae: Salticidae) of western North America, with evidence for localized asymmetrical mitochondrial introgression “, by Marshal Hedin and Michael C. Lowder; ZOOTAXA 2307: 39-60 (2009) www.mapress.com/zootaxa, ISSN 1175-5334 (online edition).

“It’s been a pleasure to write about something that I’m so passionate about,” explains Michael. “My focus since arriving at SCC in 2006 has been on the teaching aspect of my job. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to contribute to our broader understanding of genetics.”

Mr. Lowder earned his Bachelor of Science from Western Carolina University and his Master of Science from San Diego State University. He currently teaches eight biology courses that are applied to various degree programs that the College offers. “Teaching at SCC continues to be a very rewarding experience for me. I rarely visit a doctor’s office or the hospital without seeing one of my old students working as a nurse or technician.” Michael continues, “The fact that I allow them to care for my family is evidence of my faith in both their individual abilities as working professionals, and in the education and training that they received from the College.”

Pictured above: Michael Lowder, Biology Instructor and Laboratory Coordinator for Stanly Community College (SCC), recently co-authored an article that has been published in a national science journal.