Rate My Professor Marc Curtis

In his current role, Curtis acts as lead academic advisor for Botany undergraduates and post-baccalaureate students on both the Corvallis campus and Ecampus. He instructs key courses including BOT 220: Introduction to Plant Biology and BOT 331: Plant Physiology, emphasizing molecular interactions, evolutionary history, biological diversity, and hands-on field experiences to foster scientific literacy. His research interests include biochemistry, pathogens, physiology, and plant defense mechanisms, particularly cellular responses such as mutation bypass in meristems, autumn senescence, fungal defense via cell death, and leaf wax secretion. Curtis has earned accolades for instructional excellence, including nomination for the 2023 Oregon State Ecampus Awards for his patient guidance across student experience levels and recognition as Best University Instructor in the 2018 Phi Beta Kappa Student Awards. He advises the Undergraduate Botany and Plant Pathology Club, participates in departmental committees, and engages in K-12 outreach activities like nature-based scavenger hunts combining art and science.