Dr. Eduardo Gonzalez is Vice Chair of Undergraduate Studies and an Associate Teaching Professor in the Department of Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

He earned his B.S. in Chemistry from Universidad Autonoma de Ciudad Juarez (Mexico) and completed his Ph.D. in 2013 at New Mexico State University, where he studied cell adhesion regulation during development.

Dr. Gonzalez’s current work focuses on discipline-based educational research aimed at improving undergraduate STEM education by identifying and implementing effective teaching practices that support student learning and success. Rather than attributing achievement gaps to students, his research examines how course design, active learning, mentoring communities, and structured support systems can enhance equity and academic outcomes.

His recent scholarship includes publications on scalable peer mentorship programs and structured introductory biology courses that promote student persistence and success, particularly among underrepresented groups.