Research in Amanda Bird's lab in the Department of Molecular Genetics focuses on metal ion homeostasis in eukaryotic cells. Metal ions are required for the function of approximately one third of all proteins and one half of all enzymes.  Although researchers know much about the function of a given metal within a protein, they know relatively little about how cells maintain sufficient levels of ‘available’ metal ions for incorporation into newly synthesized proteins. As too much or too little of any metal is detrimental to human health, the long-term goals of this research are to determine how cells maintain optimal levels of metal ions in the cytosol for normal cellular metabolism. To gain insight into this universal process, the researchers use the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe as a model system.

Please list your educational history including degrees earned and universities attended. 

Durham University, UK, BSc in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Newcastle University, UK, PhD in Molecular Genetics

Please describe your current research/creative activity or area(s) of interest. 

My primary research focuses on how cells maintain the right balance of essential metals. Metals like zinc, manganese and iron are vital because they help many proteins function properly. However, too much of these metals can be harmful. For example, excess iron can lead to the formation of reactive radicals that damage cellular molecules, while too much zinc can interfere with the balance of other metals in the cell. To understand how cells regulate metal levels, we use the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe as a model system. Yeast are ideal for this research because they are easy to grow and genetically manipulate, making them a powerful tool for identifying the genes involved in sensing, transporting, storing and using metals.  Some of the findings from my lab include how yeast sense zinc. Many regulatory proteins within cells contain a protein domain called a zinc finger, which typically facilitates interactions with macromolecules such as DNA, RNA and proteins. In collaboration with Dr. Mark Foster’s lab in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, we demonstrated that fission yeast contains a protein called Loz1, which senses zinc through its zinc finger domains. More recently, my lab has been using yeast as a model to investigate why humans express over 20 different proteins to transport zinc and how imbalances in zinc levels can be detrimental to cell survival. Understanding how cells regulate and respond to zinc not only sheds light on fundamental cellular processes but also provides critical insights into human health, as zinc imbalances are linked to numerous diseases, including immune dysfunction, neurodegeneration and cancer.

What/who influenced you to select your area(s) of study and how has that impacted your career? 

I performed my graduate studies in the lab of Dr. Nigel Robinson, a leading expert in bacterial metal ion homeostasis. One of my key projects was investigating how cyanobacteria regulate zinc ion concentrations. At the time of my PhD, zinc was recognized as a cofactor for a few hundred enzymes. However, groundbreaking discoveries by scientists like Aaron Klug and Jeremy Berg revealed that many eukaryotic DNA-binding proteins involved in gene regulation contain zinc finger domains—small structural domains stabilized by zinc. This revelation was incredibly exciting for me, as it uncovered a much broader role for zinc in cellular processes. Inspired by these findings, I pursued postdoctoral research in the lab of Dr. David Eide, a leading expert in eukaryotic zinc homeostasis. My primary project there focused on understanding how the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae senses zinc—a process I found was intricately linked to zinc finger domains. I also explored how many genes are regulated by zinc in a manner that is dependent upon non-coding RNAs.

What undergraduate classes do you teach? 

I currently teach four undergraduate classes, including DNA Fingerprinting and Scientific Roots in the UK. DNA Fingerprinting (MOLGEN4591S/MICRBIOL4591S) is a service-learning class offered each spring. In this course, undergraduates join me in Columbus City high schools, guiding students through solving a mock crime scene using DNA evidence. Beyond the science, we engage in meaningful discussions with high school students about university life and career opportunities. In Scientific Roots in the UK (BIO4798), we explore key figures and notable scientific discoveries from the UK and neighboring countries. Students learn about pioneers such as Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton and Marie Curie. The highlight of the class is a study abroad component during spring break, where we visit London, Oxford, Cambridge and Paris. During the trip, we explore significant scientific sites, including Charles Darwin’s home, The Royal Society and the Marie Curie Museum.

As part of my joint appointment with Human Nutrition in the Department of Human Sciences, I also teach two other undergraduate classes: The Science of Human Nutrition (HN2410), a General Education course that examines the nutrients in food and how the body uses them; and Micronutrients (HN4610), a course that dives deeper into the functions of essential vitamins and minerals. This class allows me to share my expertise in topics like zinc and other essential trace metals.

Why do you think a student should take these classes and why would they be of interest to students majoring in other disciplines?

I feel fortunate to teach such a diverse range of undergraduate classes, because I think that they offer very different experiences. Scientific Roots in the UK is open to all majors. While the title might suggest a focus on biology, this course explores scientists and discoveries across a wide range of fields, from biology to geology to physics. What sets this class apart is the study abroad component, which offers students more than just an academic deep dive into scientific history—it provides a chance to experience science in its historical and cultural context. Traveling as a group to destinations like London, Oxford, Cambridge and Paris allows students to see where groundbreaking discoveries were made. Beyond the academic benefits, this class fosters personal growth. Students can immerse themselves in the cultures of different countries, develop independence, and form lasting connections with their peers. While cost may deter some students, many successfully use STEP funds or apply for grants and scholarships through the College of Arts and Sciences and the Office of International Affairs to make this experience affordable. For students of any discipline, study abroad classes like Scientific Roots in the UK are a great way to combine academic enrichment with the transformative experience of international travel.

I also feel that all students should experience a service-learning class. DNA Fingerprinting has prerequisites of Molecular Genetics 4500 or 4606. If you have these prerequisites, this class offers a unique blend of fun and rewarding experiences. Not only will you refine your molecular biology skills, but you’ll also engage directly with high school students, many of whom are exploring science for the first time. Through hands-on workshops, you’ll make complex topics like DNA extraction and forensic analysis come alive in a way that excites and inspires young minds. Just as importantly, you’ll have the opportunity to share your perspective on university life and how a college degree opens doors to diverse career paths. The connections you build and the impact you make go beyond the lab—this class teaches you how to communicate science in meaningful ways, a skill that’s invaluable no matter where your career takes you.  Overall, this class is a fantastic way to inspire the next generation while developing your own communication, leadership and teaching skills.

I also teach nutrition classes, and if this is something you have never considered, I recommend HN2410 to anyone who is interested in learning more about the nutrients in their diet, and how diet affects health.

What aspects of your teaching give you the most satisfaction?

My favorite part of teaching is the interactions I have with students. While not all students take advantage of office hours, I genuinely love it when they do. These moments provide an opportunity not only to help them solve problems but also to engage in meaningful conversations about their interests, experiences in classes, and future goals. These personal connections are incredibly rewarding and remind me why I am passionate about teaching.

How can students who are interested in research in these areas reach out to you?  

Students are welcome to reach out to me by email or stop by my office. Currently, I’m housed in temporary space in Evans Lab on 18th Avenue. It’s an older building, and occasionally you might have to wrestle with the door latches to get in—but I always enjoy meeting students in person.

What book/movie would you recommend or what music do you enjoy?  

I’ve always loved science fiction and fantasy, so for books, I would recommend Dune by Frank Herbert, The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien and the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. While there are fantastic movie adaptations of these works, the books offer so much more depth to the stories, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the worlds and characters. For movies, without question, my favorite is Star Wars.

What is the most interesting place you have visited?  

This is a tough question because I love to travel and have visited so many interesting places. If I had to choose one, I’d pick Ecuador, where I biked with my husband from the top of the Andes down to the Amazon. The scenery was breathtaking, ranging from misty crater lakes and mountainous trails to the lush rainforests of the Amazon. Along the way, we visited small indigenous villages and passed through towns renowned for their handicrafts, leather goods and intricate hardwood carvings. The people we met were incredible, and the cuisine was diverse and varied depending on the region. That said, I did pass on trying chontacuro—a beetle larva said to taste like bacon! Ecuador might not be on many people’s travel lists, but it should be. It’s a fascinating place to visit with so much to offer.

What is the best advice you have received? 

The best advice I’ve received came early in my career. The very first time I submitted a paper the reviews were incredibly harsh. I felt discouraged, but one of my former mentors told me not to take the comments personally. Instead, they encouraged me to view the feedback as an opportunity to improve the work. That perspective has stayed with me, and it is important to realize that challenges are part of growth, and constructive feedback is a gift that helps you refine your ideas and become a stronger researcher.

What advice would you give to undergraduate students? 

My advice is to take full advantage of the opportunities available to you during your time as an undergraduate. College is about more than just classes—get involved in activities that excite you, whether it’s research, internships, student organizations or service-learning. These experiences will not only help you discover your interests but also develop skills you can carry into your career.

Feel free to stop by my office hours.

I love to talk about the benefits of study abroad and travel, service-learning and giving back to the community, using genetics to study basic problems in nutrition, and the importance of diet and health.

Would you like to share a fun/interesting fact about yourself? 

Earlier this year I got to ride a camel for the first time in the Sahara Desert.  You don’t realize how tall they are until you are sat on one. 

Learn more about Dr. Bird’s work, email, and office location on her department web page.