Samuel C. Smith, Ph.D.
Professor
Kendall Hall, Room 13A
(603) 862-2505
Email: samuels@cisunix.unh.edu
Educational Background:
Ph.D., Pennsylvania State University, 1962
M.S., Pennsylvania State University, 1958
B.S., Pennsylvania State University, 1955
Courses Taught:
Food & Society (NUTR 405); Lipids (ANSC 911)
General Area of Interest and/or Specialty:
Lipid metabolism in arterial smooth muscle and molecular genetics of atherogenesis (primary); social/cultural aspects of food & sports nutrition (secondary)
Description of current research and/or professional activities:
In order to establish a realistic perspective on the role of diet as a factor in Heart Disease, we are studying genetic aspects of early atherogenesis in the susceptible-resistant pigeon model. After obtaining a large amount of histological, ultrastructural and biochemical data on the structure and composition of pigeon aortas and their constituent smooth muscle cells, we have focused on lipid metabolism in vascular smooth muscle cells. We are currently exploring mechanisms responsible for increased synthesis and accumulation of cholesterol, as well as for reduced hydrolysis of cholesteryl esters, in arterial cells from susceptible pigeons. In addition, with the recent discovery that atherosclerosis-susceptibility in pigeons is inherited as a single gene, autosomal recessive trait, we are developing techniques to isolate and identify this gene.
A second research interest is the development of educational strategies to provide students with meaningful opportunities for applying textbook and classroom concepts to the solution of problems in real life situations. Toward this end we have become heavily involved in the integration of Problem-Based Service Learning in the Food and Society (NUTR 405) course. An integral component of this effort is the inclusion of various forms of writing in conjunction with the University's Writing Across the Curriculum program.
Additional Information:
Dr. Smith has been teaching the very popular general education class, Introduction to Nutrition (i.e. "Foods and Dudes"), to non-major UNH students for thirty years. He has a very strong interest in writing as a means to teach critical thinking and problem solving, as well as Learning Communities, Service Learning, and Writing Across the Curriculum. In addition, Dr. Smith has knowledge in the use of computerized lab simulations and on student attitudes and performance as measured by various validated instruments.
In 1983, Dr. Sam Smith was honored by the university community with the UNH Distinguished Teaching Award. Dr. Smith's commitment to his students was again recognized when he was named the UNH Distinguished Professor in 1996.
