Division of anatomy
Faculty - Malia Lewis
I was awarded a PhD in anatomy at Loma Linda University in the spring of 1999. My research project, entitled "Fetal Cardiac Adaptations to High Altitude," was done in conjunction with the Center for Perinatal Biology at Loma Linda. The focus of this study was the anatomical adaptations of the fetal heart associated with development under hypoxic conditions. We specifically quantitated changes in cardiac myocytes, capillaries, mitochondria and glycogen. Light and electron microscopic findings are published in the American Journal of Physiology and the Anatomical Record, respectively.
Currently I hold an instructor position with the division of human anatomy. This includes lecture and lab responsibilities with the Cell, Structure, and Function course. This class for first year medical students coordinates histology, cell biology, and pathology lectures in a systems approach. I also give a ten week oral histology course for first year dental students and an oral histology and embryology course for first year dental hygiene students. I thoroughly enjoy teaching and interacting with the students in small groups as they wander through the magnificent discovery of science and medicine.
As a member of the American Association of Clinical Anatomists I hold a position on the Career Development Committee which offers support to professionals new to the field of anatomy. Our goals are directed at strengthening the influx of career anatomists into research and education and to provide guidance and support through mentor programs, educational symposia, and job opportunities.