Dr. Olivia S. Long is a Professor of Biochemistry at Saint Vincent College. She earned her PhD in Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Prior to joining Saint Vincent College in 2026, she was a tenured Associate Professor of Biochemistry and Biology at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, where she helped establish the biochemistry major and mentored undergraduate students in scientific research.
Recently, Dr. Long served as a rotating Program Director at the National Science Foundation (NSF) in the Division of Undergraduate Education. During her time at NSF, she co-led the Scholarships in STEM (S-STEM) program and served as the Biology lead for the Improving Undergraduate STEM Education (IUSE) program. Her work focused on strengthening undergraduate STEM education, supporting innovative educational initiatives, and expanding opportunities for student success.
Dr. Long is passionate about undergraduate education, scientific research, and creating opportunities for students to develop as scientists. Her teaching and research emphasize hands-on learning, scientific inquiry, and meaningful student engagement.
Education
PhD, molecular genetics and developmental biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Courses
Dr. Long teaches upper-level biochemistry and cell biology courses, including their associated laboratory courses, at Saint Vincent College. She also mentors undergraduate students through independent research experiences, providing opportunities to develop laboratory skills, engage in scientific inquiry, and contribute to ongoing research projects.
Her previous teaching experience includes virology, general biology, and seminar-based courses. Across her courses, Dr. Long emphasizes active learning, critical thinking, and the application of scientific concepts to real-world biological questions.
Research Interests
Dr. Long's research focuses on molecular biology, biochemistry, and the use of Caenorhabditis elegans (a microscopic nematode) as a model organism to investigate biological processes relevant to human health and disease.
A central component of her research program is undergraduate student involvement. Students participate in experimental design, laboratory investigations, data analysis, and scientific communication. Her undergraduate researchers have presented their work at regional and national scientific conferences, received research awards, and contributed to peer-reviewed publications.
Dr. Long is particularly interested in providing students with opportunities to engage in authentic scientific research early in their academic careers, helping them develop the technical skills, independence, and confidence needed for future scientific pursuits.
Selected Publications
Lesko, R., Long, O. S., & Murphy, K. (2026). The Effectiveness of Manuka Honey in Treating Staphylococcus aureus in C. elegans. microPublication Biology.
Waltermire, H. K., & Long, O. S. (2024). Effects of apoptotic cell clearance pathways on cell corpse clearance, development, and longevity in Caenorhabditiselegans. BIOS, 95(4), 259–265.
