Dr. Stephanie Heyeck’s journey in the world of biology has taken her across the country and through some of the most prestigious academic institutions, culminating in her fulfilling role at The Pennington School. Her path, marked by groundbreaking research, a passion for teaching, and a commitment to innovation, exemplifies the dynamic blend of science and education.
Dr. Heyeck began her academic journey at the University of California, Santa Cruz, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Biology. Eager to explore new horizons, she moved to the East Coast to pursue a PhD in medical science at Harvard University after a two-year stint at Stanford University. While at Stanford, at the Stanford Blood Bank, Heyeck analyzed blood cells to identify AIDS symptoms—work that had a profound impact on blood safety protocols.
Her work at Stanford also included clinical analysis of CD4 T-cells, which play a pivotal role in immune response but diminish in patients with HIV. This work paved the way for critical advancements in understanding HIV progression and patient prognosis.
During her time at Harvard, Heyeck joined the Division of Medical Sciences, attracted by the university’s robust immunology program. Mentored by Dr. Jack Strominger, she focused on T-cell development and the role of corticosteroids in T-cell selection. Her research revealed how stress could cause immature T-cells to die, thereby compromising immunity, an important insight into immune system regulation. Continuing her work in T-cell regulation Heyeck began a project with Dr. Leslie Berg that led to the discovery of a new signaling molecule integral to T-cell maturation and regulation.
Following her PhD, Heyeck conducted post-doctoral research at Harvard and Princeton University. Her work at these institutions led to the further characterization of signaling molecules integral to T-cell maturation and immune regulation. These findings, which she published at the conclusion of her post-doctoral work, continue to influence studies on the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease and immune regulation.
Heyeck’s passion for education emerged early in her career, through teaching assistant roles and training science researchers in the use of complex laboratory equipment. After taking time off to raise her daughter, Erin ‘20, she became involved in science-focused summer camps for middle and high school students. These experiences solidified her decision to transition into teaching full-time.
In 2013, Heyeck began her teaching career at Pennington as a long-term substitute and gradually took on roles in environmental science, honors biology, and AP biology. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes hands-on learning and fostering intellectual curiosity, which aligns with her leadership as the Chair of Pennington’s science department since 2017.
Heyeck’s tenure at Pennington has been marked by exciting advancements in science education. She and her colleagues have integrated cutting-edge technologies, such as Oxford Nanopore sequencing devices, into the curriculum. Students engage in “campus diversity blitzes” to collect and analyze soil samples for fungi, bacteria, and viruses, and even sequence their own DNA. These initiatives not only deepen students’ understanding but also provide opportunities for them to contribute to scientific publications.
Heyeck’s enthusiasm for teaching extends beyond the classroom. She co-teaches a senior elective in bioethics with Dr. Nate Van Yperen, exploring critical questions about the ethical implications of technological advances in biology and medicine.
Additionally, she mentors Middle School students through the Odyssey of the Mind program. Tasked with solving design and engineering problems on a budget, students must use a combination of hands-on construction, computer-interfaced production, and dramatic skills in order to present their solutions to judges. Since 2013, a number of Heyeck’s teams have earned medals in local and state competitions and have even participated in the World Finals at universities in Iowa and Michigan.
Heyeck describes her colleagues and students at Pennington as her “extended family.” She takes pride in the collaborative spirit of the science department and the mutual learning that occurs every day. “I’ve always dreamed of a large extended family, and now I’ve found it,” she says.
From her impactful research to her innovative teaching methods, Dr. Stephanie Heyeck embodies the essence of a lifelong learner and educator. Her dedication inspires both her colleagues and students, making her an invaluable member of the Pennington community.