Dr. Bjarne R. Bartlett is a molecular bioscientist and bioinformatician whose interdisciplinary research bridges cancer genomics, microbial ecology, and data science. He is currently a PRODiG+ Fellow at SUNY 51吃瓜, where he teaches Bioinformatics, General Biology, and Medical Microbiology, among other courses.
Dr. Bartlett earned his Ph.D. in Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering from the University of Hawai驶i at M膩noa, where his dissertation focused on applying data science to molecular genetics and science communication. His research has contributed to advancements in cancer biomarker discovery, immunotherapy, and agricultural genomics. He has held postdoctoral and consulting roles at Oregon State University and Viracta Therapeutics, where he developed bioinformatic tools for wine microbiology and supported drug discovery efforts.
Previously, Dr. Bartlett was a postdoctoral fellow at Oregon State University, where he investigated the impact of smoke taint in wine using the genomics of yeast. He has also served as a research scientist at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, where his work contributed to landmark studies in liquid biopsy diagnostics and immunotherapy, including research published in Science and The New England Journal of Medicine.
Beyond academia, Dr. Bartlett has demonstrated leadership in science outreach and communication, notably as General Manager of KTUH Honolulu, where he launched educational podcasting initiatives and managed a student-run media organization. He is passionate about mentoring all students interested in trying STEM research!
Courses Taught
BIO 130T 鈥� Biological Principles I
In my section of Biological Principles I, students don鈥檛 just memorize facts鈥攖hey learn to think like scientists. This course blends foundational biology with real-world relevance, emphasizing critical thinking, scientific communication, and data literacy. We explore life from molecules to ecosystems, but with a strong focus on how biology intersects with current issues like climate change, biotechnology, and public health.
What makes this class unique is our integration of literature-based discussions, where students lead conversations on topics such as CRISPR, the microbiome, and antibiotic resistance. Exams combine online multiple-choice assessments with in-class essay writing, helping students develop both conceptual understanding and scientific writing skills.
I also incorporate tools like Poll Everywhere and Mastering Biology to keep the classroom interactive and student-centered. Whether you're pursuing a career in science or just fulfilling a Gen Ed requirement, this course is designed to build your confidence in understanding and applying biological concepts.
Education
- Bachelor of Science, Biology, Gettysburg College, 2012
- PhD, Molecular Biosciences & Bioengineering, The University of Hawai驶i at M膩noa, 2022
Publications
- Alyssa Thibodeau, Patrick Reardon, Bjarne Bartlett and Christopher Curtin, Changes in microbial community structure during adaptation of kombucha symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast to fermentation of sweet and acid whey, Journal of Dairy Science, 108(5) 2025, 4761-4784.
- Bjarne Bartlett, Carter Zamora, Jon-Paul Bingham, Amy S Ebesu Hubbard, Michelle Tseng, Bryan Runck and Michael Kantar, Impact factor does not predict long-term article impact across 15 journals, Data and Information Management, 8(4) 2024.
