Background and expertise
Since starting at Naz in fall 2022, Stachowski has been working with undergraduate students on developing new methods to make sugars found in human breast milk. She completed her postdoctoral work as a researcher at Wayne State University. Stachowski previously served as a visiting professor at Kalamazoo College, where she taught general chemistry, organic chemistry, and biochemistry lecture & laboratory courses.
Stachowski's goal as a teacher is to always provide a safe learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes.
"I try to bring my whole, authentic self into the classroom and lab, so that students get to know me better and feel compelled to do the same," says Jessica Stachowski, shown with students.
My academic passion
"Every physical phenomenon that makes up the living and nonliving world can be explained through chemistry. I love trying to understand why things happen."
Courses I teach
- General Chemistry
- Biochemistry I and II
- Biochemistry Lab
- Bioorganic Research Methods
- Fundamentals of Organic and Biochemistry
"I especially like teaching biochemistry because I have the fun job of bringing together all the fundamental concepts students learn in general and organic chemistry courses. It's exciting to show them how these concepts apply to the biochemical processes that sustain life. I enjoy the 'ah ha' moments when students better understand why the things they learned years ago are important."
Why Naz?
"I love teaching at Naz because the small, personalized environment allows me to know each of my students as individuals and in many cases be a part of their learning journey from freshman year to graduation and beyond."
A laboratory for growing changemakers
"Many of the students I teach will become changemakers in healthcare or science research industries, but the path to jobs in these fields is not always straightforward. My goal is to inspire students' confidence, help them realize their interests and strengths, and make sure they are prepared for the next steps in their careers after leaving Naz."
The fun side of biochemistry
"I'm always trying to think of new ways to make biochemistry more accessible and fun. In Biochemistry I and II, students use pipe cleaners to model protein structure. They make egg-white meringue to study protein denaturation. They play with coins and plastic tubes to replicate enzyme kinetics. And they twist rubber bands to simulate DNA topology."
Advice: Be resilient and believe in yourself!
"Chemistry is challenging and complex, but that is also what makes it so rewarding. Don't be discouraged by your failures but instead use them to fuel your success."
Student perspective
"Dr. Stachowski's student-first philosophy is one of her strengths as a professor. She radiates a deep passion for biochemical sciences and teaches in a way that makes this complicated field relatable and enjoyable. I have appreciated how much she has gone above and beyond to support me on my journey at Naz, even when I wasn't taking a course with her. Dr. S. is the best!"
- Kara Daskiewich '24, biomedical sciences major