Health Sciences

The Health Sciences Department represents the newest core competency in the Museum. The mission of the department is to explore and teach the biological principles of human health and disease. The department’s research activities advance our communities’ understanding of the biochemical and molecular mechanisms at work in the human body. Specifically the lab uncovers small genetics changes, called SNPs (‘snips) that have big influences on a person’s ability to perceive different flavors and what they like to eat.

A new permanent exhibit called Expedition Health opened in April 2009. This interactive exhibit enables you to experience the amazing capabilities of your body. Measure your health, strength and endurance. See how your body changes to meet the demands of your environment and witness how your choices can improve your life. The Blue Tongue Blog aims to explore the live research study, Genetics of Taste: A Flavor for Health, happening right now in Expedition Health

The department is actively seeking collection acquisitions in the areas of anatomy, pathology, histology, and regional medical history.

Curators

Bridget Coughlin
Vice President of Strategic Partnerships & Programs and Curator of Human Health
PhD, 1999, University of Iowa, Howard Hughes Medical Institute
303.370.6310
bridget.coughlin@dmns.org

Nicole Garneau
Curator of Human Health
PhD, 2009, Colorado State University
303.370.6086
nicole.garneau@dmns.org

Collections Manager

Rich Busch
Associate Collections Manager
MA, 2007, University of Denver
303.370.6071
richard.busch@dmns.org

Department Staff

Jonathan Grudis
Expedition Health Lab Technician
303.370.6330
jonathan.grudis@dmns.org

Meghan Sloan
Expedition Health Lab Technician
303.370.6332
meghan.sloan@dmns.org

Susan Nicholson-Dykstra
Expedition Health Lab Technician
303.370.8361
susan.nicholson-dykstra@dmns.org

David Denniff  
Office Manager
303.370.6353
david.denniff@dmns.org