Prior to joining UFV, James was an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Adams State University in Alamosa, Colorado, USA. James is a member of the Genomics Education Partnership (http://gep.wustl.edu/) and his research involves analyzing Drosophila (fruit fly) species genomic DNA sequences. He has been able to provide research opportunities and mentorship for over 100 undergraduate students through this work. He also collaborates with the Hereditary Cancer Program at the BC Cancer Agency in clinical research centering on human genetics, including studies such as genetics education with nursing undergraduates, genetic conditions and the effect they have on personal insurability, and the translation of new genetic techniques to improve patient outcomes.