Biography
Dr. Gillen spent seven years in graduate study in zoology and medical microbiology at The Ohio State University, The University of Houston, and Baylor College of Medicine. His focus is on integrating creation themes with biology. He has written three books and two lab manuals on various biology topics. His books include The Human Body: An Intelligent Design, Body by Design: Fearfully & Wonderfully Made, and The Genesis of Germs.
His major research interests are detecting water parasites and pathogens in Lynchburg, VA Area Waters, describing the origin and genesis of Giardia, Cryptosporidium and coliform growth in local waters, and the carriage of MRSA in Liberty University students.
Courses Taught
- BIOL 203 Introduction to Microbiology
- BIOL 305 Parasitology
- BIOL 400 Biology Seminar
Research Interests
Dr. Gillen and his lab students are interested in tracking the incidence of water parasites and pathogens in local streams and lakes. His major research interests are detecting water parasites and pathogens in fish and snails, like those associated with Black Spot disease. He is studying black spot disease in Gambusia, the mosquitofish, and how parasites affect their blood circulation. Samples are taken from local ponds, lakes, and streams. The results of this research educate students regarding good public health, blood circulation, and the importance of controlling parasitic diseases, especially those that are vector-borne diseases (schistosomiasis, malaria, West Nile fever).
Publications