You're on track to get doubled donations (and unlock a reward for the colleague who referred you). Keep up the great work!
Take credit for your charitable giving! Check out your tax receipts
To use your $50 gift card credits, find a project to fund and we'll automatically apply your credits at checkout. Find a classroom project
Skip to main content

Help teachers & students in your hometown this season!
Use code HOME at checkout and your donation will be matched up to $100.

Upload a classroom photo

Dr. Coats Ph.D's Classroom

  • Thomas Jefferson High School
  • Dallas, TX
  • Nearly all students from low‑income households Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more

https://www.donorschoose.org/classroom/7081301 Customize URL

show projects from all time

Past projects 3

  • Modeling & Biochemical Analysis: Master Regulator of Pancreas Development

    Funded Feb 14, 2020

    First, I would like to thank you for your contribution to our unique Biomedical Research Program and second I will tell you why your donations make an enormous difference in the lives of my students.

    At this time in our world the lives of our students are filled with uncertainty, anxiety, and fear. This year our school district has started the year teaching in a virtual setting. The materials that you have provided me with will enhance the learning experience for my enthusiastic students. And perhaps many of you do not know but most public-school districts provide little to no funding for the science classroom including glassware, chemicals, kinesthetic manipulatives, and equipment.

    Without your continued support these important enrichment activities that are truly authentic hands-on research projects that have real world applications would not occur in my classroom. Like many master teachers, I purchase these important items with my personal funds to make "IT HAPPEN" for my students. I am in my third decade as a high school science teacher, director of the Biomedical Research Program and a summer PhD research scientist at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

    Early on in my career I realized that my school district did not have a budget to support our unique program. I made a conscious decision to build this program and have procured ~ $360,000 dollars to build one of the best Biomedical Research Program in the nation. These funds have come from individuals like yourselves, by writing grants over the years and spending my own funds to make sure that my students are ready for college and future careers. Once again, thank you for all that YOU do to make the lives of my students better, enriched and exciting on a daily basis.

    Student Perspectives

    I'm Latham Davies, a junior this year and this is my 3rd year in the Biomedical Research Program studying the pancreatic developmental protein Ptf1a. My ultimate objective since my first year in high school was to diversify my portfolio and achieve great academic strides in my high school career, Biomed was definitely the way to do both! This program was a phenomenal chance for me to learn about my capabilities in a real research program in Biomedical sciences plotting my perspective for a future career in the Biomedical engineering. I have a real passion for this program, as it's more than just an extracurricular, it's an experience and a developmental tool for my life. Dr. Coats, our mentor is incredibly passionate about our experience in the lab and asking questions that really get us thinking about biochemical phenomena and its applicability. But it's not all about the science, it's about the people to. You get to converse and collaborate with the best minds at our school during your time in the program. This opportunity is a once in a lifetime chance, don't miss out.

    My name is Devany Morales and I am a Senior this year. This is my second year in the Biomedical Program, and I have so far enjoyed it very much. I got interested in this program because I want to pursue a career in science, especially in a field that relates to helping human life. Biomedical Research is a program which expands your knowledge and makes you have fun at the same time. You also do lots of hands-on experiments which is always awesome! I believe that I can provide curiosity and leadership to the group. I look forward to the rest of the challenges and accomplishment that we are going to have this year.

    My name is Noor Ali and I am currently a junior this year. This is my first year in the Biomedical Research Program a and I'm very excited to be a part of it. I think this program is a great opportunity to further my knowledge of Biomedical Research and learn more about the importance of doing research like this. I've had an interest in science since I was young and plan to pursue a career in the medical field making this program the perfect option for me. I am thrilled to be a part of this amazing program and can't wait to see what's next!

    My name is Kenean Bekele and I am a senior this year. This will be my first year joining the Biomedical Research Program and I wish I had done it a lot earlier because I've already seen how enjoyable and beneficial it is! It is a program that teaches students general and applied research which enables them to comprehend the developmental body of knowledge in the field of medicine. It also offers a wide variety of expertise in which students can test out and apply their skills in order to grasp a higher knowledge of the concept and dexterity they are being taught. Since I want to pursue a career in the medical field, bio-med could not be a more of a perfect fit for me. I was hesitant at first but seeing how practical and hands-on the learning experience is, I am truly thankful for being a part of this unique group of students who are committed to success and excellence. I have no doubt that the environment and spirit of learning in the Biomedical Research Program has will propel me towards my future. And finally, I'm so excited to continue my journey with my fellow classmates and Dr. Coats.

    My name is Hunter La Force and I am a 12th grader this year. This will be my first year participating in the Biomedical Research Program, and I could not be more honored to be partnered with my amazing peers and Dr. Coats as we venture into this upcoming year. I am a passionate student, who's love for literature, physical/natural sciences, and intellectualism is unbounded (in other words— I'm a huge nerd) The Biomedical Research Program allows 9-12 graders to experience a critical foundation in their future research/academic efforts by allowing them to lay a strong foundation in biomedical sciences as well as university level analysis and laboratory procedure. I initially joined the program in hopes of finding an outlet for my passion for chemistry and a community that sponsors higher level thinking and delving deeper into the subject outside of the classroom. However, this motivation was supported and carried to fruition in part to the incredible reputation and findings of the Biomedical Research Program in previous years. In this I find encouragement that regardless of my age and previous laboratory experience, with the right team and the right mind—I can do anything.

    My name is Jose Diaz and I am in the 11th grade this year. This is my second year participating in the Biomedical Research Program. I joined the Biomedical Research Program to learn more about biomedical research and for my interest of science. Being part of this Program in High School allows me to challenge myself to think like a researcher. I get a hands-on experience with different compounds and molecules that interact with the human body and learn how to improve the health of humans. That for me is just one of the many reasons why I love being in this great program.”

    With gratitude,

    Dr. Coats Ph.D

  • Modeling & Biochemical Analysis of PTF-L: Master Regulator Pancreas Development

    Funded Feb 4, 2020

    First, I would like to thank you for your contribution to our unique Biomedical Research Program and second I will tell you why your donations make an enormous difference in the lives of my students.

    At this time in our world the lives of our students are filled with uncertainty, anxiety, and fear. This year our school district has started the year teaching in a virtual setting. The materials that you have provided me with will enhance the learning experience for my enthusiastic students. And perhaps many of you do not know but most public-school districts provide little to no funding for the science classroom including glassware, chemicals, kinesthetic manipulatives, and equipment.

    Without your continued support these important enrichment activities that are truly authentic hands-on research projects that have real world applications would not occur in my classroom. Like many master teachers, I purchase these important items with my personal funds to make "IT HAPPEN" for my students. I am in my third decade as a high school science teacher, director of the Biomedical Research Program and a summer PhD research scientist at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

    Early on in my career I realized that my school district did not have a budget to support our unique program. I made a conscious decision to build this program and have procured ~ $360,000 dollars to build one of the best Biomedical Research Program in the nation. These funds have come from individuals like yourselves, by writing grants over the years and spending my own funds to make sure that my students are ready for college and future careers. Once again, thank you for all that YOU do to make the lives of my students better, enriched and exciting on a daily basis.

    Student Perspectives

    I'm Latham Davies, a junior this year and this is my 3rd year in the Biomedical Research Program studying the pancreatic developmental protein Ptf1a. My ultimate objective since my first year in high school was to diversify my portfolio and achieve great academic strides in my high school career, Biomed was definitely the way to do both! This program was a phenomenal chance for me to learn about my capabilities in a real research program in Biomedical sciences plotting my perspective for a future career in the Biomedical engineering. I have a real passion for this program, as it's more than just an extracurricular, it's an experience and a developmental tool for my life. Dr. Coats, our mentor is incredibly passionate about our experience in the lab and asking questions that really get us thinking about biochemical phenomena and its applicability. But it's not all about the science, it's about the people to. You get to converse and collaborate with the best minds at our school during your time in the program. This opportunity is a once in a lifetime chance, don't miss out

    My name is Kenean Bekele and I am a senior this year. This will be my first year joining the Biomedical Research Program and I wish I had done it a lot earlier because I've already seen how enjoyable and beneficial it is! It is a program that teaches students general and applied research which enables them to comprehend the developmental body of knowledge in the field of medicine. It also offers a wide variety of expertise in which students can test out and apply their skills in order to grasp a higher knowledge of the concept and dexterity they are being taught. Since I want to pursue a career in the medical field, bio-med could not be a more of a perfect fit for me. I was hesitant at first but seeing how practical and hands-on the learning experience is, I am truly thankful for being a part of this unique group of students who are committed to success and excellence. I have no doubt that the environment and spirit of learning in the Biomedical Research Program has will propel me towards my future. And finally, I'm so excited to continue my journey with my fellow classmates and Dr. Coats

    My name is Noor Ali and I am currently a junior this year. This is my first year in the Biomedical Research Program a and I'm very excited to be a part of it. I think this program is a great opportunity to further my knowledge of Biomedical Research and learn more about the importance of doing research like this. I've had an interest in science since I was young and plan to pursue a career in the medical field making this program the perfect option for me. I am thrilled to be a part of this amazing program and can't wait to see what's next!

    My name is Hunter La Force and I am a 12th grader this year. This will be my first year participating in the Biomedical Research Program, and I could not be more honored to be partnered with my amazing peers and Dr. Coats as we venture into this upcoming year. I am a passionate student, who's love for literature, physical/natural sciences, and intellectualism is unbounded (in other words— I'm a huge nerd) The Biomedical Research Program allows 9-12 graders to experience a critical foundation in their future research/academic efforts by allowing them to lay a strong foundation in biomedical sciences as well as university level analysis and laboratory procedure. I initially joined the program in hopes of finding an outlet for my passion for chemistry and a community that sponsors higher level thinking and delving deeper into the subject outside of the classroom. However, this motivation was supported and carried to fruition in part to the incredible reputation and findings of the Biomedical Research Program in previous years. In this I find encouragement that regardless of my age and previous laboratory experience, with the right team and the right mind—I can do anything.

    My name is Jose Diaz and I am in the 11th grade this year. This is my second year participating in the Biomedical Research Program. I joined the Biomedical Research Program to learn more about biomedical research and for my interest of science. Being part of this Program in High School allows me to challenge myself to think like a researcher. I get a hands-on experience with different compounds and molecules that interact with the human body and learn how to improve the health of humans. That for me is just one of the many reasons why I love being in this great program.”

    With gratitude,

    Dr. Coats Ph.D

  • Modeling & Biochemical Analysis of PTF1 :Master Regulator of Pancreas Development

    Funded Jan 28, 2020

    First, I would like to thank you for your contribution to our unique Biomedical Research Program and second I will tell you why your donations make an enormous difference in the lives of my students.

    At this time in our world the lives of our students are filled with uncertainty, anxiety, and fear. This year our school district has started the year teaching in a virtual setting. The materials that you have provided me with will enhance the learning experience for my enthusiastic students. And perhaps many of you do not know but most public-school districts provide little to no funding for the science classroom including glassware, chemicals, kinesthetic manipulatives, and equipment.

    Without your continued support these important enrichment activities that are truly authentic hands-on research projects that have real world applications would not occur in my classroom. Like many master teachers, I purchase these important items with my personal funds to make "IT HAPPEN" for my students. I am in my third decade as a high school science teacher, director of the Biomedical Research Program and a summer PhD research scientist at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

    Early on in my career I realized that my school district did not have a budget to support our unique program. I made a conscious decision to build this program and have procured ~ $360,000 dollars to build one of the best Biomedical Research Program in the nation. These funds have come from individuals like yourselves, by writing grants over the years and spending my own funds to make sure that my students are ready for college and future careers. Once again, thank you for all that YOU do to make the lives of my students better, enriched and exciting on a daily basis.

    Student Perspectives

    I'm Latham Davies, a junior this year and this is my 3rd year in the Biomedical Research Program studying the pancreatic developmental protein Ptf1a. My ultimate objective since my first year in high school was to diversify my portfolio and achieve great academic strides in my high school career, Biomed was definitely the way to do both! This program was a phenomenal chance for me to learn about my capabilities in a real research program in Biomedical sciences plotting my perspective for a future career in the Biomedical engineering. I have a real passion for this program, as it's more than just an extracurricular, it's an experience and a developmental tool for my life. Dr. Coats, our mentor is incredibly passionate about our experience in the lab and asking questions that really get us thinking about biochemical phenomena and its applicability. But it's not all about the science, it's about the people to. You get to converse and collaborate with the best minds at our school during your time in the program. This opportunity is a once in a lifetime chance, don't miss out

    My name is Kenean Bekele and I am a senior this year. This will be my first year joining the Biomedical Research Program and I wish I had done it a lot earlier because I've already seen how enjoyable and beneficial it is! It is a program that teaches students general and applied research which enables them to comprehend the developmental body of knowledge in the field of medicine. It also offers a wide variety of expertise in which students can test out and apply their skills in order to grasp a higher knowledge of the concept and dexterity they are being taught. Since I want to pursue a career in the medical field, bio-med could not be a more of a perfect fit for me. I was hesitant at first but seeing how practical and hands-on the learning experience is, I am truly thankful for being a part of this unique group of students who are committed to success and excellence. I have no doubt that the environment and spirit of learning in the Biomedical Research Program has will propel me towards my future. And finally, I'm so excited to continue my journey with my fellow classmates and Dr. Coats

    My name is Noor Ali and I am currently a junior this year. This is my first year in the Biomedical Research Program a and I'm very excited to be a part of it. I think this program is a great opportunity to further my knowledge of Biomedical Research and learn more about the importance of doing research like this. I've had an interest in science since I was young and plan to pursue a career in the medical field making this program the perfect option for me. I am thrilled to be a part of this amazing program and can't wait to see what's next!

    My name is Hunter La Force and I am a 12th grader this year. This will be my first year participating in the Biomedical Research Program, and I could not be more honored to be partnered with my amazing peers and Dr. Coats as we venture into this upcoming year. I am a passionate student, who's love for literature, physical/natural sciences, and intellectualism is unbounded (in other words— I'm a huge nerd) The Biomedical Research Program allows 9-12 graders to experience a critical foundation in their future research/academic efforts by allowing them to lay a strong foundation in biomedical sciences as well as university level analysis and laboratory procedure. I initially joined the program in hopes of finding an outlet for my passion for chemistry and a community that sponsors higher level thinking and delving deeper into the subject outside of the classroom. However, this motivation was supported and carried to fruition in part to the incredible reputation and findings of the Biomedical Research Program in previous years. In this I find encouragement that regardless of my age and previous laboratory experience, with the right team and the right mind—I can do anything.

    My name is Jose Diaz and I am in the 11th grade this year. This is my second year participating in the Biomedical Research Program. I joined the Biomedical Research Program to learn more about biomedical research and for my interest of science. Being part of this Program in High School allows me to challenge myself to think like a researcher. I get a hands-on experience with different compounds and molecules that interact with the human body and learn how to improve the health of humans. That for me is just one of the many reasons why I love being in this great program.”

    With gratitude,

    Dr. Coats Ph.D

Biomedical research students study the PTF-L complex by performing structural modeling, over-expression and purification of the heterotrimeric complex composed of Ptf1a, E12 and RBPJ. Our students begin their research project during their freshman year and culminate this grand journey by presenting their research in the open poster session at the largest science meeting in the world, the annual American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Conference.This unique program allows enthusiastic students to perform hands-on experiments in protein structure, biochemistry, and molecular biology. This is an amazing journey for our students, parents and myself. Please help our scientists dream about their future.

About my class

Biomedical research students study the PTF-L complex by performing structural modeling, over-expression and purification of the heterotrimeric complex composed of Ptf1a, E12 and RBPJ. Our students begin their research project during their freshman year and culminate this grand journey by presenting their research in the open poster session at the largest science meeting in the world, the annual American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Conference.This unique program allows enthusiastic students to perform hands-on experiments in protein structure, biochemistry, and molecular biology. This is an amazing journey for our students, parents and myself. Please help our scientists dream about their future.

About my class

{"followTeacherId":7081301,"teacherId":7081301,"teacherName":"Dr. Coats Ph.D","teacherProfilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7081301_orig.jpg?crop=484,484,x206,y0&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1580224227896","teacherHasProfilePhoto":true,"vanityURL":"","teacherChallengeId":21552030,"followAbout":"Dr. Coats Ph.D's projects","teacherVerify":1627726439,"teacherNameEncoded":"Dr. Coats Ph.D","vanityType":"teacher","teacherPageInfo":{"teacherHasClassroomPhoto":false,"teacherHasClassroomDescription":true,"teacherClassroomDescription":"","teacherProfileURL":"https://www.donorschoose.org/classroom/7081301","tafURL":"https://secure.donorschoose.org/donors/share_teacher_profile.html?teacher=7081301","stats":{"numActiveProjects":0,"numFundedProjects":3,"numSupporters":8},"classroomPhotoPendingScreening":false,"showEssentialsListCard":false}}