Dr. Jaclyn K. Murray is an Assistant Professor of Science Education at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia. She joined the Tift College of Education in Fall 2023 after serving as an Assistant Professor of Science & Engineering Education at Augusta University. Jaclyn earned her Ph.D. in Science Education from the University of Georgia in 2016, where her dissertation explored spatial and creative skills in first-year engineering student design.

Jaclyn has a background in science and engineering education. Before her faculty positions, she worked as a research fellow and scientist at the University of Michigan and Georgia Tech, investigating topics such as problem exploration in defining engineering problems and the experiences of engineers returning for graduate degrees. Currently, she has an NSF grant focused on the ways in which prospective elementary teachers model scientific phenomena and how epistemological views shift by engaging in model-based inquiry. The outcome of her work leads to research findings and practitioner tools for implementation.

She also has experience teaching high school and college science courses and science education methods courses. Previously, Jaclyn worked as an engineer in spinal implant product development and testing. She publishes in science and engineering education journals and presents her work at numerous international, national, and local conferences.

Please contact me with suggestions for programming or support from GSTA for faculty at the College level (science and science teacher educators).