Assistant Professor

Justin Rice, PhD

Dr. Justin W. Rice is a professor of Biology in the College of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Rice is originally from Iowa, and loves cycling, snowboarding, and root beer.

He currently teaches anatomy and physiology courses, cell and molecular courses, and other general biology courses. His academic training was broad, covering the fields of biology, teaching pedagogy, and education policy. His most recent research focuses on student academic success and the use laboratory study spaces.

Contact Us

Contact Justin Rice for information on Biology

Lewis Hall 205

563-333-6369

RiceJustin@sau.edu

Education and Training

PhD, Iowa State University, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
MS, Iowa State University, Interdisciplinary Studies-Biology Education
BA, Augustana College, Biology and Psychology

Recent Publications

Rice, J.W., Clough, M.C., Olson, J.K., Adams, D.C., & Colbert, J.T. (2015) University faculty and their knowledge & acceptance of biological evolution. Evolution: Education and Outreach 8:8
Jarchow, M. E., Rice, J. W., Ritson, R. M., & Hargreaves, S. K. (2011) Awareness and convenience are important in increasing conference sustainability. Sustainability Science 6, 2:253-254
Rice, J.W., Olson, J.K., & Colbert, J.T. (2011) University Evolution Education: The Effect of Evolution Instruction on Biology Majors' Content Knowledge, Attitude Toward Evolution, and Theistic Position. Evolution: Education and Outreach 4:1

Courses Taught

Human Anatomy & Physiology I
- Systems-based introduction to the structure and function of the human body including the study of cell structure and organization, histology, the digestive system, metabolism, the skeletal system (including joints), muscle tissue and the muscular system, neural tissue, the spinal cord, and spinal nerves. Students are trained in critical thinking and application through the use of clinical case studies. The course comprises the first semester of a year-long sequence, including BIOL 232, and is intended to fulfill prerequisites for graduate programs such as Occupational and Physical Therapy or Physician Assistant. Lecture and laboratory. Laboratory includes cat dissection and hands-on work with prosected cadavers. *An additional course fee will be charged.
- Human Anatomy & Physiology I Lab
Human Anatomy & Physiology II
- Systems-based introduction to the structure and function of the human body including the study of the brain and cranial nerves, the autonomic nervous system, the endocrine system, the reproductive system, the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system and immunity, the respiratory system, and the urinary system. Students are further trained in critical thinking and application through the use of clinical case studies. The course comprises the second semester of a year-long sequence, including BIOL 230, and is intended to fulfill prerequisites for graduate programs such as Occupational and Physical Therapy or Physician Assistant. Lecture and laboratory. Laboratory includes hands-on work with prosected cadavers. *An additional course fee will be charged.
- Human Anatomy & Physiology II Lab
Cell & Molecular Biology
- Introduction to principles of cell structure and function with emphasis on eukaryotic cells. Laboratory focuses on current techniques in cell and molecular biology. *An additional course fee will be charged.
Environmental Science
- Application of basic ecological principles to human environment, including current and future energy sources, population growth and control, pollution, and world food supply. For non-science majors.
Principles of Biology
- Introduction to the science of biology including genetics, evolution, ecology, and molecular biology, with special reference to human biology. For non-science majors. Lecture and laboratory. *An additional course fee will be charged.
- Principles of Biology Lab
Biological Research I
Biological Research II

Professional Memberships

Professional Services

BBB Honor Society (Theta Theta Chapter) – Campus Advisor
Beta Beta Beta Honor Society (Theta Theta Chapter) Faculty Advisor, August 2022 – Current
SAU Faculty Assembly Secretary, Elect August 2022 – July 2023
SAU Faculty Assembly Secretary, August 2023 – Current
TCG Club Faculty Advisor, January 2025 – Current
Food Rescue US (2023 - Current) – Volunteer food rescuer. Program involves the collection, transportation, and delivery of food donations from donor to local service agency.
ImpactLife: Partner for Life (2022 - Current) – Volunteer participation at local blood center, regular blood donations, emergency donations, active advocate for blood donation.