Science Outreach Spotlight: Professor Dr. Sarder Uddin
Advancing Science, Education, and Community Impact Across Continents
By Staff Reporter
Professor Dr. Sarder N. Uddin is a Bangladeshi-American scientist, educator, and researcher whose career spans more than two decades of teaching, scientific discovery, and student mentorship. Through his work in biotechnology, molecular biology, neuroscience, genetics, microbiology, and anatomy and physiology, he has contributed to both scientific research and the development of future healthcare professionals, scientists, and educators.
His academic journey reflects a commitment to lifelong learning, international collaboration, and the belief that science should be accessible to everyone.
Educational Journey
Dr. Uddin began his higher education at Khulna University, Bangladesh, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology and a Master of Science in Genetic Engineering. His academic excellence led him to receive the prestigious Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship, enabling him to pursue doctoral studies at Yamaguchi University, Japan.
He completed his Ph.D. in Molecular Biology at Yamaguchi University, conducting research in developmental genetics and molecular biology. Following his doctorate, he continued advanced scientific training in the United States through:
- Postdoctoral Fellowship in Neuroscience at Montana State University
- Postdoctoral Fellowship in Developmental Biology (Embryology) at Michigan State University
These experiences provided him with expertise in developmental genetics, neurobiology, molecular biology, and biomedical research.
Academic Leadership and Teaching Excellence
Dr. Uddin began his academic career at Khulna University in 2002 and progressed through the ranks from Lecturer to Professor of Biotechnology. During his tenure, he taught undergraduate and graduate courses in:
- Biotechnology
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Genetics
- Physiology
- Microbiology
He also advised and supervised numerous student research projects and theses.
In the United States, Dr. Uddin has served at several higher education institutions, including:
- Oakland Community College
- College of DuPage
- City Colleges of Chicago
- Triton College
- Montana State University
- Michigan State University
At Triton College and City Colleges of Chicago, he teaches:
- Human Anatomy & Physiology
- Human Biology
- Pathophysiology
- General Biology
- Microbiology
His hands-on approach includes cadaver-based anatomy instruction, laboratory training, active learning strategies, and student-centered teaching methodologies.
Throughout his career, he has mentored thousands of students and helped many pursue careers in medicine, nursing, allied health sciences, biotechnology, and research.
Research Contributions
Dr. Uddin’s research focuses on understanding biological processes that influence development, disease, genetics, and human health.
His major research interests include:
- Developmental Biology
- Molecular Genetics
- Neuroscience
- Neurodegenerative Diseases
- Stem Cell Biology
- Biotechnology
- Microbial Genetics
- Disease Mechanisms
- Cancer Biology
- Gene Delivery Systems
At Montana State University, he investigated neural circuit development and sensory processing using Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) as a model organism.
At Michigan State University, he participated in federally funded research involving:
- Molecular biology
- Reproductive biology
- Cellular biology
- Developmental biology
His laboratory expertise includes:
- PCR and qPCR
- Western Blotting
- ELISA
- Flow Cytometry
- Confocal Microscopy
- Cell Culture
- Immunohistochemistry
- In Situ Hybridization
He has contributed to research projects funded by organizations such as:
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- National Science Foundation (NSF)
- United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Scholarly Achievements
Dr. Uddin has authored and co-authored more than 30 peer-reviewed scientific publications, along with book chapters and conference proceedings. His work spans developmental biology, neuroscience, genetics, microbiology, biotechnology, pharmacology, and biomedical sciences.
Notable Publications
Developmental Biology
Uddin SN, Yano M, Murakami R (2012)
The drumstick gene acts cell-non-autonomously and triggers specification of the small intestine in the Drosophila hindgut.
International Journal of Developmental Biology.
Neurodegenerative Disease Research
Haque R, Hossain SA, Uddin SN (2025)
Role of Reactive Oxygen Species in Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease Pathophysiology.
Alzheimer’s & Dementia.
Autism Research
Sultana Z, Uddin SN, Ahmed A (2017)
Role of Environmental and Genetic Factors in Autism Spectrum Disorder.
BSMR Medical University Journal.
Cancer Biology
Hossain SA, Rabbani MG, Islam KK, Uddin SN (2014)
COP1-Mediated p53 Pathway and Its Oncogenic Role.
Biomedical Research and Therapy.
Agricultural Biotechnology
Hossain MA, Uddin SN (2011)
Mechanisms of Waterlogging Tolerance in Wheat: Morphological and Metabolic Adaptations under Hypoxia or Anoxia.
Australian Journal of Crop Science.
Food Safety and Microbiology
Akond MA et al. (2009)
Bacterial Contaminants in Carbonated Soft Drinks Sold in Bangladesh Markets.
International Journal of Food Microbiology.
Books and Book Chapters
Dr. Uddin has contributed to biotechnology education through scholarly book chapters, including:
Non-Viral DNA Delivery Systems: Approaches, Applications and Challenges in Biotechnology
Uddin SN (2011)
Published in:
Advances in Biotechnology
Bentham Science Publishers, Canada
Molecular Bio-techniques for Isolation and Characterization of a Gene
Pramanik MK and Uddin SN (2011)
Published in:
Advances in Biotechnology
Bentham Science Publishers, Canada
International Scientific Presentations
Dr. Uddin has presented research findings at major international scientific conferences in:
- United States
- Japan
- Taiwan
Notable presentations include:
- 64th Annual Drosophila Research Conference (Chicago, USA, 2023)
- 56th Annual Drosophila Research Conference (Chicago, USA, 2015)
- Asia-Pacific Drosophila Research Conference (Taiwan, 2011)
- Molecular Biology Society of Japan Annual Meetings
- Japanese Biochemical Society Conferences
His conference presentations have focused on developmental genetics, hindgut specification, neural development, and signaling pathways in Drosophila.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his academic career, Dr. Uddin has received numerous competitive awards and fellowships, including:
Erasmus-Mundus EXPERTS Fellowship
2015
Erasmus-Mundus Research Grant
2013
Best Researcher Award
Yamaguchi University, Japan
2012
Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship
2007-2011
Research Fellowship
Montana State University
2013-2014
Multiple International Research and Travel Grants
These awards reflect international recognition of his academic achievement and scientific contributions.
Community Impact
Beyond research and teaching, Dr. Uddin is committed to expanding access to STEM education and mentoring students from diverse backgrounds. His classrooms have served as pathways for first-generation college students, immigrant learners, aspiring healthcare professionals, and future researchers.
Through mentorship, academic advising, and research supervision, he has helped students develop scientific skills, pursue graduate education, and enter careers in medicine, biotechnology, public health, nursing, and academic research.
His journey from a student in Bangladesh to an internationally trained scientist and educator serves as an example of how education, research, and community engagement can create lasting impact across borders and generations.
Looking Ahead
As research continues to address challenges such as Alzheimer’s disease, genetic disorders, cancer, and emerging health concerns, Dr. Sarder N. Uddin remains dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge while inspiring future scientists and health professionals. Through education, research, mentorship, and outreach, he continues to promote the value of science as a tool for discovery, innovation, and societal progress.