Matthew Jackson, Ph.D., associate professor of immunology and microbiology, has been appointed interim assistant dean for basic-science education. Previously, the post was held by James Hazlett, Jr., Ph.D., who died unexpectedly Feb. 22.

"Although we are still mourning the loss of Dr. Hazlett, we are dedicated to preserving the important work he led here at the School of Medicine ," said Maryjean Schenk, M.D., M.P.H., interim associate dean for academic and student programs. "I am very grateful to have an exemplary educator and scholar such as Dr. Jackson to build on the foundation laid by Dr. Hazlett."

In 1989, Dr. Jackson joined the WSU School of Medicine as an assistant professor of immunology and microbiology; he was promoted six years later to the rank of associate professor. His research has focused primarily on E. coli.

Dr. Jackson also has a strong interest in technology-enhanced medical education. In 2002, he led an effort to supply personal digital assistants, or PDAs, as educational tools to sophomore students. The interactive program allows course instructors to gauge in real time how well students are grasping various concepts discussed during a class.

Dr. Jackson received his Ph.D. in microbiology from Kansas State University in 1985 before completing a postdoctoral research fellowship at the Uniformed Services University Health Sciences, in Bethesda , Md. He also obtained a master's degree in microbiology as well as a bachelor's degree in biology at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

Dr. Jackson received an Excellence in Teaching Award from the WSU School of Medicine in 2000. He has served as a member of several study sections; Dr. Jackson is currently a member of the Enteric Diseases Panel, Military Infectious Disease Research Program, in Herndon , Va.