Helping students understand science, build confidence and envision their futures takes dedicated educators. The Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences is celebrating two such faculty members, Katherine Thompson-Peer and Andrea Nicholas, who were recognized at UC Irvine’s 34th annual Celebration of Teaching on Sept. 17, 2026.
Thompson-Peer, an assistant professor of developmental and cell biology, received the Excellence in Pedagogical Development Award, which honors instructors who invest substantial time and effort in strengthening their teaching through professional development.
Her latest recognition builds on a record of supporting students and early-career scientists. She previously received the Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory’s inaugural Exceptional Mentor Award, which recognizes thoughtful mentorship and efforts to improve training experiences, particularly for scientists from historically underrepresented groups. She also received the Tom Angell Fellowship for going beyond her regular responsibilities to create mentoring opportunities, along with a Committee Spotlight Award at UCI’s Dynamic Womxn Awards, a celebration of campus leaders and role models.
Nicholas, a professor of teaching in neurobiology and behavior, was named the Dunlop School’s Dean’s Honoree, recognizing exemplary teaching. She previously earned UCI’s Dr. De Gallow Professor of the Year award and the school’s Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching. Her research interests connect learning and memory with the practice of teaching, bringing the science of how people learn into her work as an educator.
Together, these honors celebrate the lasting value of exceptional teaching and mentorship. Congratulations to Thompson-Peer and Nicholas for helping students learn, grow and pursue their potential.