Jane Rice
Teaching Specialist
120 N. Kedzie Lab
(517) 432-2152 ext. 109
rice@msu.edu

Jane Rice earned her undergraduate degree in biology from Aquinas College and a doctorate from Michigan State University in physiology with an emphasis on environmental health.

She has worked with the state public health department in several research studies investigating the effects of environmental toxins (PBBs, PCBs) on human health. She has also researched the effects of light on human circadian and seasonal rhythms, especially in the area of seasonal affective disorder. Recently she has administered an intercollegiate environmental studies program at Michigan State. She works with the University Committee for a Sustainable Campus to infuse issues of environmental sustainability into the college curriculum.

Currently, she teaches a science course for prospective K-8 teachers that integrates earth science, physical science and life science in a discovery-based approach keyed to the state science objectives. Additionally, she has worked to develop an integrated science program for K-8 pre-service teachers at Michigan State. She also presents in-service workshops for practicing teachers in all areas of science. She serves as a consultant on K-12 science education in the public and private sectors.

She is interested in making science accessible to people who have missed the wonder and excitement of science by providing science experiences (courses, workshops, field trips) that focus on basic concepts applied to everyday life. Her goal is to improve scientific literacy so people can make informed decisions about their health, the environment and consumer purchases.