I am currently an Assistant Professor of Practice for the School of Biological Sciences and the Science Specialist for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln TRIO Scholars Program. I have been at UNL since 1997, earning both a Bachelors (B.S.-2000) and a Masters degree (M.S.-2002), with a specialization in Animal Science. In completion of my graduate degree, I conducted research for 11 years in the School of Biological Sciences in behavioral cognition, I also functioned as the laboratory manager for 5 years of my term within this research capacity. In 2014, I transitioned into instruction within the biology department. I currently teach Biology 101 and Life 120 for smaller sections of this course. I have served within SBS since 2003, and my position as the science specialist since 2014. My spouse, Mr. Jai Burks is an administrator for Lincoln Public Schools, and we have 5 Burks Children-Isis, Aida, Ivan, Aria, & Iyla.
My research interest is focused on first-generation students, science self-efficacy, and instructional practices that enhance learning outcomes in science education.