Ty Bottorff is a scientist and educator whose work bridges biological research and student-centered teaching. They hold a PhD in Biochemisty from the University of Washington and a BS in Molecular and Cellular Biology with Secondary Education certification from Vanderbilt University. In addition to conducting research in immunology and genomics, they have taught biology, chemistry, and computational science across a wide range of settings, including university courses, research-based summer programs, and middle and high school classrooms. This breadth of experience has shaped an approach to teaching that meets students where they are while inviting them to think deeply, ask good questions, and engage seriously with scientific ideas. At the heart of their teaching philosophy is the belief that advanced science education should be both intellectually challenging and deeply supportive. They design learning experiences around discussion, data analysis, and presentation, helping students practice how scientists actually think: interpreting evidence, testing ideas, communicating clearly, and learning from one another. Their classrooms emphasize transparency, collaboration, and curiosity, creating an environment where students feel comfortable wrestling with complex material and making mistakes as part of the learning process. Ultimately, they aim for students to leave not only with stronger scientific skills, but with greater confidence in their ability to engage critically with science whether or not they pursue it as a career.