Jill Sible

At Virginia Tech, Dr. Sible led an innovative cell biology research program for a decade then moved into university administration twelve years ago to work for the improvement of the undergraduate learning experience. Dr. Sible first served as the Academic Associate Dean in the College of Science. In that role, she introduced her campus to the SCALE-UP concept and spearheaded the design and construction of SCALE-UP classrooms and adoption of the associated active learning pedagogy at Virginia Tech. Dr. Sible has taught courses in cell and molecular biology, developmental biology, and cancer biology and cites the learning experiences she shares with her students as her greatest professional reward.

In her current role as Associate Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education, Dr. Sible oversees the offices of General Education, First Year Experiences, Undergraduate Research, and Academic Integrity. Her recent projects include leading a revision of Virginia Tech’s general education curriculum to be more integrated, outcomes-oriented and infused with contemporary pedagogy, and chairing a Beyond Boundaries committee to develop strategies to bring experiential learning opportunities to every Virginia Tech student. She has also worked on the vision and programming for Virginia Tech’s new classroom building and new undergraduate science laboratory building.

She has led over $10M in sponsored research projects including $8M in STEM education grants with a focus on promoting equity and inclusion. She is currently the lead investigator for a $1M Howard Hughes Medical Institute Inclusive Excellence Grant. Dr. Sible is a National Academies Education Fellow in the Life Sciences.