We're here to help you meet your educational and career goals.

No matter your starting point, our experienced faculty and small classes will help you build a strong foundation in a range of scientific and engineering fields.

We’ll prepare you for seamless transfer to a top four-year college or immediate employment in a high-demand field such as Automotive Technology or Medical Laboratory Technology.

Whether you’re planning to transfer to a four-year college or jumpstart a new career, the programs in the Science and Engineering Department will help you turn curiosity into opportunity.

Our transfer degrees in a variety of scientific and engineering fields, including biology, chemistry, environmental science, physics, and more, will prepare you for a smooth transition to a four-year degree and beyond. With experienced faculty and small classes, we’ll help you build the strong foundation you’ll need to succeed. Our graduates have transferred to prestigious four-year schools such as Cornell University, UC Berkeley, NJIT, RPI, Stevens Institute of Technology, and Rutgers University

If you’re eager to enter the workforce, our programs in Medical Laboratory Technology and Automotive Technology will deliver the specialized expertise and hands-on skills you’ll need to start an exciting career in a high-demand field. These accelerated hybrid programs offer a quick path to a great job.

No matter where you start or where you’re headed, we’re here to help you find success.

Meet the experts who are here to help you succeed

Marianne Baricevic
Marianne Baricevic

Marianne Baricevic

Professor - Anatomy & Physiology

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
  • B.A., Genetics, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
Ed Carr
Ed Carr

Ed Carr

Professor - Biology

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
  • M.S., Biology, East Stroudsburg University
  • M.Ed., Secondary Education, Biology, East Stroudsburg University
  • B.S., Biology, University of Scranton
Margaret Czerw
Margaret Czerw

Margaret Czerw

Professor - Chemistry

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Computational Chemistry, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
  • B.S., Chemistry, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
Anthony D’Angelo
Anthony D’Angelo

Anthony D’Angelo

Instructor - Mechanical Engineering Technology

Mr. D’Angelo is a licensed professional engineer with 39+ years of professional experience in Systems Engineering, thermal analysis, structural analysis, Finite Element Analysis, and modeling and simulation. The author of two textbooks, Machine Design for Technology Students and Dynamics and Mechanisms Design for Technology Students, his research focuses on Reliability-based design, Probabilistic-based Multi-Criteria Decision Systems, Digital Twins, and Machine Learning.

 

Degrees:

  • M.S., Mechanical Engineering, NJIT
  • M.B.A., Minor Finance, Rutgers University
  • B.S., Mechanical Engineering, NJIT
Siddra Majeed Dar
Siddra Majeed Dar

Siddra Majeed Dar

Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator - Medical Laboratory Technology

Degrees:

  • M.S., Biotechnology, Karachi University – Pakistan
  • M.S., Bioinformatics, University of Maryland Global Campus
  • B.S., Medical Laboratory Science, Punjab University – Pakistan
  • (ASCP)CM
Christopher Haines
Christopher Haines

Christopher Haines

Instructor - Chemistry

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Organic Chemistry, Penn State University
  • B.S., Chemistry, Mansfield University of Pennsylvania
Sara Heller
Sara Heller

Sara Heller

Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator, Automotive Technology

Sara Heller is the coordinator of the automotive program at RVCC. She teaches a variety of the automotive courses and focuses on making sure students graduate with the skills required to be successful as an automotive technician. Sara loves working on vehicles and is in the process of creating a curriculum for electric vehicles.

 

Degrees:

  • M.Ed., Education, Capella University
  • B.A., Philosophy, Queens College
Eric Iannacone
Eric Iannacone

Eric Iannacone

Associate Professor - Anatomy & Physiology

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Massachusetts – Amherst
  • B.A., Biology, University of San Diego
Ahmed Katsha
Ahmed Katsha

Ahmed Katsha

Associate Professor - Anatomy & Physiology

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Medical Science, Tohuku University – Japan
  • B.A., Biochemistry, Damascus University – Syria
Jay Kelly
Jay Kelly

Jay Kelly

Professor, Biology and Environmental Science; Co-Director, Center for Environmental Studies

Dr. Kelly teaches a variety of field biology and environmental science classes at RVCC. His research interests include the biology and conservation of rare plant species; population studies of white-tailed deer and exotic, invasive species; ecological assessments of forests, beaches, and other natural areas; and the development of evidence-based, ecological approaches to maintain and restore these important local ecosystems.

 

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Ecology and Evolution, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
  • B.A., Biology, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
Melanie Lenahan
Melanie Lenahan

Melanie Lenahan

Professor - Biology

Dr. Lenahan, a passionate RVCC educator with 20+ years of experience, emphasizes experiential learning through field trips, citizen science, and undergraduate research. She champions student authorship and career readiness, using ePortfolios and student-designed projects. Dr. Lenahan prioritizes evidence-based teaching and fosters inclusive environments.

 

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers University
  • B.S., Biology, Rutgers University
Chuan Liu
Chuan Liu

Chuan Liu

Instructor - Chemistry

Dr. Liu is an experienced organic chemist. He emphasizes inclusive teaching strategies, acts as an ally to students, and maintains a safe, nonjudgmental learning environment. He serves as adjunct liaison for Chemistry, course lead for Organic Chemistry, chair of the Institutional Engagement Committee, and coleader of the PRIDE Employee Affinity Group. He also teaches incarcerated students in the RISE program.

 

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Chemistry, University of Miami
  • B.S., Chemistry, Nankai University
Demetris Nicolaides
Demetris Nicolaides

Demetris Nicolaides

Associate Professor - Physics

Dr. Nicolaides is a physicist and an author. His interests include science, and the history and philosophy of science. His research spans physics, astronomy, and philosophy. He believes all things in nature share a subtle universal commonality which he strives to find and understand. He likes the journey more than the destination and doesn’t mind getting lost now and then.

 

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Physics, The City University of New York
  • M.Phil., Physics, The City University of New York
  • M.A., Physics, Queens College
  • B.A., Applied Mathematics, Queens College
  • B.A., Physics, Queens College
Antonella Pompo
Antonella Pompo

Antonella Pompo

Professor - Engineering

Dr. Pompo, Coordinator of the Engineering Program at RVCC, holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science and a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Naples. A dedicated and student-centered educator, she builds meaningful connections with her students and helps them develop the study habits essential for success in rigorous technical disciplines. She teaches a wide range of engineering courses.

 

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Materials Science, University of Naples – Italy
  • B.S., Chemical Engineering, University of Naples – Italy
Emilie Stander
Emilie Stander

Emilie Stander

Professor - Biology and Environmental Science

Dr. Stander teaches Environmental Science and Biology courses, including General Biology II and Environmental Science and Sustainability. She directs RVCC’s Water Quality Laboratory and co-directs the Center for Environmental Studies, which give students opportunities to participate in local environmental research and stewardship. Dr. Stander is an ecosystem ecologist who specializes in urban and wetland ecology, water quality, and stormwater management.

 

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Ecology and Evolution, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
  • B.S., Environmental Science, Brown University
Derek Weber
Derek Weber

Derek Weber

Professor - Biology

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin – Madison
  • B.S., Chemistry, Moravian University

Adjunct Faculty

Bringing industry expertise to the classroom

Patricia Bakos

Degrees:

  • Columbia University Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
  • M.S., Human Nutrition, Montclair State University
  • B.A., Biology, Rutgers University

Peter Barra

Degrees:

  • A.S., Chemistry, Middlesex County College
  • B.A., Biology, Rutgers University
  • M.A.T.L., Instructional Technology, Nova Southeastern University

Madalina Buzaianu

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Chemical Physics, University of Puerto Rico – Rio Piedras
  • B.S., Physics, University of Bucharest – Romania

Cody Dunning

Degrees:

  • M.S Geoscience, Ohio University
  • B.Ed., Earth Science Education, West Chester University
  • B.S., Geoscience, West Chester University

Nancy Duker

Degrees:

 

  • M.S., Biology, University of Delaware
  • B.S., Biology, Kean University

Michael Ferner

Degrees:

  • M.S., Applied Physics, NJIT
  • B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Rutgers University

John Fisher

Degrees:

  • Doctorate of Health Science, Baypath University
  • M.S., Nursing, Walden University
  • M.S., Human Anatomy, Northeast College of Health Sciences
  • B.S., Nursing & Health Science, Stockton University

Chrismol George

Degrees:

  • M.S., Biology, Fairleigh Dickinson University
  • M.B.B.S., Medical, JJM Medical College – Inida

Sherry Lynn Gerwer

Degrees:

  • RN-BC Certified Medical Surgical Nurse, American Nurses Credentialing Center
  • M.S.N., Nursing Education, Grand Canyon University
  • B.S., Immunology, Seton Hall University
  • Diploma of Nursing., Registered Nurse, Muhlenberg School of Nursing
  • A.S., Nursing, Union County College
  • A.S., Liberal Arts, Middlesex County College

Rima Hossary

Degrees:

  • Master’s in Public Health with a concentration in Epidemiology, Regis College
  • B.S., Medical Laboratory Sciences, American University of Beirut – Lebanon

John Koscinski

Degrees:

  • M.B.A., Rider University
  • M.S.E.E., Electrical Engineering, Monmouth University
  • B.S.E.E., Electrical Engineering, Monmouth University

Alec Levine

Degrees:

  • M.S., Chemistry, Rutgers University
  • M.A., Secondary Education, Fairleigh Dickinson University
  • B.A., Chemistry, Fairleigh Dickinson University

Surabhi Marathe

Degrees:

  • M.S., Biotechnology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences
  • M.A., Educational Psychology/Science Education, Rutgers University
  • B.S., Human Biology and Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences

Gorky Massache

Degrees:

  • D.C., Chiropractic, New York Chiropractic College
  • B.A., Biology, Kean University

Clare McEnroe

Degrees:

  • M.S., Clinical Nutrition, New York University
  • B.S., Home Economics, Montclair State College

Theresa Meyers

Degrees:

  • M.S., Chemistry, Villanova University
  • B.A., Chemistry, Drew University (ACS certified)

Nicholas Milton

Degrees:

  • M.S., Anatomy and Clinical Health Science, University of Delaware
  • B.S., Exercise Physiology, Rutgers University

Yelena Naumova

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Environmental Science, Rutgers University
  • M.S., Chemistry, St-Petersburg State University
  • M.S., Environmental Engineering, Manhattan College
  • B.S., Chemistry, St-Petersburg State University

Nancy Olds

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Biology, City University of New York
  • M.A., Biology, Queens College
  • B.A., Environmental Studies, Antioch College

Agny Puentes

Degrees:

  • M.S., Electronic Engineering, Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas – Colombia
  • Graduate Certificate in Bioengineering, Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas- Colombia
  • B.S., Physics, Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas- Colombia

Anthony Rosania

Degrees:

  • D.C., Chiropractic Medicine, University of Bridgeport Chiropractic College
  • B.A., Business Administration, Seton Hall University

Arpita Saha

Degrees:

  • M.S., Zoology with specialization in Fish Biology, Visva Bharati University – India
  • B.S., Zoology, Visbha Bharati University – India

Partha Samadder

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Molecular Genetics, Gifu University – Japan
  • M.S., Molecular Genetics, Shinshu University – Japan
  • M.S., Biochemistry, University of Dhaka – Bangladesh
  • B.S., Biochemistry, University of Dhaka – Bangladesh

Shyamali Hiranthi Samaranayake

Degrees:

  • Ph.D., Plant Science and Biology
  • M.S., Plant Breeding and Selections

Raymond Schnell

Degrees:

  • M.Ed., Rutgers University – New Brunswick
  • B.A., Zoology, University of Maine – Orono

Sherry Shapiro

Degrees:

  • M.S., Organic Chemistry, Stevens Institute of Technology
  • M.S., Chemical Physiology, Stevens Institute of Technology

Viveca Sulich

Degrees:

  • M.A., Biology, Montclair State University
  • B.S., Biology, Montclair State University

Jerry Vinski

Degrees:

  • M.S., Science Education, Clarion University

Doug Vornlocker

Degrees:

  • M.N.R.S., Ecological Restoration, Colorado State University
  • B.A., Biology, Rutgers University
  • A.S., Biology, Raritan Valley Community College

Philip Wallace

Degrees:

  • M.S., Electrical Engineering, Cornell University
  • B.S., Electrical Engineering, Cornell University

Mark Yuschak

Degrees:

  • M.A., Environmental Studies, University of Illinois – Springfield
  • B.A., Earth Science, Kean University

Agatha Yang

Degrees:

  • Doctor of Nursing Practice, Chamberlain University
  • M.S., Nursing, Thomas Edison State University
  • B.S., Nursing, California State University

Enrich your student experience

Explore your interests and connect with faculty and fellow students by joining one of the Department’s sponsored clubs, like the Biology/Chemistry Club, the Engineering Club, the Environmental Club, or Sisters in STEM. Attend one of the regularly scheduled Science Seminars, present a research project at the annual Student Poster Session, or volunteer at the Little Scientists Night event.

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Need help choosing a path?

RVCC has advisors who can guide you on your path to success. Our team will help you map your path by discussing your interests and your academic and professional goals. We’ll help you build a plan and a schedule that works for you.