From left: Mark Bee, Jeff Gralnick, and Daniel Stanton
Three College of Biological Sciences faculty members were recognized by the University with McKnight professorships. Mark Bee and Jeff Gralnick were named Distinguished McKnight University Professors, and Daniel Stanton was named a 2025-27 McKnight Land-Grant Professor.
The Distinguished McKnight University Professorship is awarded to a select group of outstanding full professors. Dr. Bee and Dr. Gralnick are among just 10 faculty to receive this recognition this year.
Mark Bee
Dr. Bee is a professor in the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior who investigates variation in acoustic communication with an eye to understanding animal responses to environmental change and applications in human communication. He has taught and mentored many students over the years and earned a reputation as an excellent lecturer and skillful mentor. Dr. Bee has also made important contributions through his service to the University, most recently as a faculty senator and elected member of the Senate and Faculty Consultative Committees. He served in a number of leadership roles and led efforts to improve conditions for faculty and staff.
Jeff Gralnick
Dr. Gralnick is a professor in the Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, and the College's associate dean for faculty and interim associate dean for research. He is an accomplished researcher, outstanding educator, and award-winning mentor and advisor. His research focuses on the intersection of genetics, environmental microbiology, and synthetic biology with applications in the fields of bioenergy and bioremediation. In addition to his work in the lab and the classroom, Dr. Gralnick has also made important contributions as an administrator, representing the College with distinction.
Daniel Stanton
The McKnight Land-Grant Professorship is designed to advance the careers of exceptionally promising assistant professors. Dr. Stanton was one of only a dozen University faculty to receive the award this year.
An assistant professor in the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, Dr. Stanton has distinguished himself as a researcher known for his innovative and collaborative approach to studying the ecological importance of diverse lichens and mosses. Since joining the faculty, he has served as principal investigator or co-PI on a number of large grants and taught more than 700 students, including Ecology, Minnesota Flora, and Nature of Life at Itasca.
Their achievements demonstrate a commitment to excellence and a dedication to their disciplines, their students, and this University that is inspiring.