Professor Richard Hill has been working with students and conducting research in the Michigan State University zoology department for 37 years. In his role as associate chairperson, Hill has integrated teaching and research in a manner which has helped define the culture of the department while making strong connections with generations of students.

“From the day I started my doctorate work, I saw myself wanting to do both teaching and research,” said Hill, who teaches ZOL 483: Environmental Physiology. The class explores how physiology and function relate to ecology.

Hill recently finished editing the second edition of his popular textbook, “Animal Physiology.” The new edition will be printed in four languages and is used by educators around the world.

“I have invested a lot of time teaching, and the book is a manifestation of that endeavor,” Hill said. “All the while, I’ve always tried to be involved in something creative in the research field.”

Hill’s research focuses on the metabolites of organisms that represent symbioses between animals and algae, notably reef-building corals and giant clams. Working with Dan Jones at the MSU Mass Spectrometry Facility, Hill discovered a set of compounds in coral organisms that may act as protective agents against light stress.

“The biggest single threat to corals is a problem called bleaching, and it is on the rise worldwide,” Hill said.

Bleaching is caused by a disruption in the relationship between a coral animal and its symbiotic algae. The loss of algae associated with bleaching can be fatal for coral because algae produce food they share with the animal.

This summer, Hill is leading a study abroad course in the Galápagos Islands. Thirteen students will accompany him as they learn about organismal biology, evolution and island ecosystems. This marks his 25th year taking students into natural environments - combining his love of teaching and research while impacting another generation of students.

###