Andrew Dacks interest in his field came from his undergraduate studies entirely by accident. The more he studied, the more he became fascinated by the neural mechanisms that allow such small animals as insects to have such wide behavioral ranges. Mainly, he focuses on molecular and cellular mechanisms by which the nervous system can adjust the activity of neurons to prioritize the influence of some cells over others. 

“My favorite aspect of my field is that insects are all around us, so I’m never short on subjects to observe,” Dacks described.  

As Associate Professor in the Department of Biology, Dacks is most looking forward to an engaged student body and a vibrant research community. He goes further to say how all of the faculty he’s engaged with have provided exciting perspectives. In addition, every student has demonstrated a deep curiosity with their studies. 

Dacks advises his students to follow their own path.

“Once you’ve found a subject matter that excites and engages you, pursue it and everything else will fall into place,” Dacks said. “It is more important that you find an occupation, than a job.” 

Dacks received his undergraduate degree from University of Alberta and his PhD from The University of Arizona. Dacks was a professor of biology at West Virginia University for 12 years prior to joining CWRU and he’s the primary investigator of the Dacks Lab: Mechanisms of Sensory Modulation, which he has brought with him to Case Western Reserve. 

Outside of the classroom, Dacks enjoys hiking and biking. To him, that makes the MetroParks such a great local attraction.