ODU Biology

Mechanism of age-related accumulation of mtDNA mutations in human blood - Nature Genome-wide analyses indicate that accumulation of mitochondrial DNA mutations, a hallmark of ageing, may be caused by cryptic replication errors, which act as passenger mutations that eventually become detectable with age owing to age-related somatic mosaicism, rather than oxidative damage.

How common bacteria fasten their armour Analysis reveals the enzyme that allows some microorganisms to anchor their outer membrane to their cell wall.

🌿 As we wrap up American Wetlands Month, we’re reminded that wetlands are essential to the health of our planet

They protect communities, support wildlife, and help address some of our most pressing environmental challenges

While this month highlights their importance, the need to protect and restore wetlands continues year-round

Thank you for being part of this community and helping advance wetland science and conservation.

The American Wetland Month resources are still available here: https://ow.ly/A3AT50YYkbj

The link to the obituary of our dear colleague, Dr. Ralph Stevens, is below.

Ralph W. Stevens III Obituary (2026) - Norfolk, VA - Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home & Crematory - Tidewater Drive Chapel View Ralph W. Stevens III's obituary, send flowers and sign the guestbook.

The Memorial Ceremony for our colleague, Dr. Ralph Stevens, is scheduled for May 27, 1 PM, at the Second Presbyterian Church located at 7305 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk, VA. 23505 (757-423-2822). Visitation will be from 12:30-1 PM before the Ceremony.

The Biology Department Lab Specialist Position is now open on the ODU Jobs site: https://jobs.odu.edu/postings/26105. Please apply by 11:59 PM on Friday, May 22.

This position oversees the preparation of materials for the General Biology labs in addition to media preparation, assisting in running the autoclave facility, and working with our student workers. This is a great opportunity for someone to gain a WIDE variety of skills, including wet lab skills, and explore a variety of topics. After a 1-year probation, this person will be eligible for staff tuition waivers which enables them to work part time on a degree.

Our dear colleague and former leader, Dr. Harry Marshall, passed away on April 22, 2026. He was part of the Department here from 1963 through 2013, and he served as Department Chair for an epic 21 years. His full obituary can be found here: https://www.pilotonline.com/obituaries/harold-george-marshall-virginia-beach-va/. There will be a memorial Mass at 11am on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the Catholic Church of the Holy Family at 1279 North Great Neck Road, Virginia Beach.

Our beloved colleague, Dr. Ralph Stevens, passed on Friday, May 15, around 9 PM. We will post more information as it becomes available. Rest Well, Brother.

Congratulations to our class of MS Graduates — May 15, 2026! 🎓

Ayesha Atique

Immanuel Caleb Jashar Burns

Bryan Byrd

Phillip "Rusty" Cundiff

Nichole Leach

Melanie Lhuillier

Cameron Miller

Rachel Volkin

We celebrate your journey and achievement. Your intelligence, passion, and persistence culminated in your accomplishment. Go forward with confidence as you improve our world!