News: Scientist Dr. Parker Joins CCU

Novus Biologicals Senior Scientist Joins CCU

Colorado Christian University has announced the hiring of Mark A. Parker, Ph.D., as an associate professor of biology in the University's School of Humanities and Sciences. Dr. Parker comes to CCU after having led since 2006 as a senior scientist and head of product development at Novus Biologicals in nearby Littleton, Colo. The biotech company specializes in developing products that serve niche and emerging markets in the forefront of scientific discovery.

Dr. Parker's addition to CCU's faculty comes at a time when undergraduate students especially are expressing heightened interest in pre-medicine or biological sciences as areas of study and career pursuit. Currently, new academic focuses in the sciences are under discussion among CCU officials, who remain optimistic that Dr. Parker's arrival bodes well for the future.

His appointment began this Monday with the spring 2011 semester.

In his roles with Novus, Parker was responsible for developing new products and supervising the technical support of existing product lines. Since 2008, he'd also been on the adjunct biology faculty at the University Center at Chaparral and at Arapahoe Community College.

After earning a doctorate in biological sciences from the University of Denver, he conducted his post-doctoral fellowship with the University of Colorado's Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. His research centered on developing several embryonic stem-cell lines among mice to study the role of the BDNF protein (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) in the central and peripheral nervous systems.

"Dr. Parker brings an enthusiasm to CCU that will develop the Biology major into a first-rate program that includes shadowing of professionals, internships, and courses reflective of contemporary biology," commented Dr. Bill Saxby, CCU Dean of Humanities and Sciences.