Dr. Derek Harmon, an Associate Professor in the Division of Anatomy at Ohio State University, embodies dedication to education, scholarship, mentorship, innovation, and interdisciplinary cooperation. His journey into academia began with a twist of fate—a poor experience in his first chemistry class redirected his path from medical school to the exploration of other potential fields. Dr. Harmon's passion for anatomy education began during his undergraduate years at Ohio State, where he discovered the joy of teaching as a teaching assistant in the anatomy lab.
After completing his master's and Ph.D. in anatomy at Ohio State, Dr. Harmon ventured to the University of California San Francisco for seven years, where he honed his skills and developed a deep appreciation for mentorship under the guidance of Dr. Kimberly Topp. His return to Ohio State in 2022 marked a significant milestone, allowing him to pursue his passion for teaching and mentorship.
At Ohio State, Dr. Harmon directs the Gross Anatomy course for graduate students and teaches advanced Musculoskeletal courses for physical therapy and occupational therapy students. He also contributes to medical teaching and facilitates anatomy courses for resident fellows and continuing medical education programs. Dr. Harmon's dedication to education extends beyond the classroom as he actively mentors six Ph.D. students guiding them through their dissertation projects.
His commitment to mentorship stems from his own experiences as a graduate student. Recognizing the importance of scholarly writing and research skills, Dr. Harmon focuses on equipping his students with the tools necessary for success. He emphasizes the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration and encourages his students to explore opportunities across different departments, fostering a culture of innovation and cooperation.
Dr. Harmon's innovative approach to education incorporates technology to enhance learning experiences. He spearheads projects integrating 3D printing and virtual reality into anatomy education, addressing clinical challenges, and providing hands-on training opportunities for medical professionals. His initiatives, such as the development of a bone marrow biopsy simulation model, demonstrate his commitment to bridging the gap between academia and clinical practice.
In recognition of his exemplary contributions to anatomy education and scholarship, Dr. Harmon was awarded the prestigious Basmajian Award for excellence in anatomy education and scholarship at Anatomy Connected 24. This accolade underscores his dedication to advancing the field of anatomy through mentorship, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Dr. Harmon's passion for anatomy education, coupled with his unwavering commitment to mentorship and interdisciplinary cooperation, exemplifies the core values of the American Association for Anatomy. His journey from student to educator reflects a deep-seated desire to inspire the next generation of anatomists and shape the future of anatomy education. As a member of the American Association for Anatomy, Dr. Derek Harmon continues to elevate the standards of excellence in anatomy education and scholarship, leaving an indelible mark on the field for years to come.
Make sure you keep up with Dr. Harmon’s work on LinkedIn and Research Gate.