Dr. James Sacco believes effective teaching begins with respect for students and a genuine enthusiasm for learning. He strives to make science relevant by helping students understand how what they learn connects to their future careers and everyday lives.
Dr. Sacco values an accessible, supportive approach to teaching, encouraging students to ask questions, engage in meaningful dialogue, and seek guidance when they need it. He also emphasizes clear communication and active classroom interaction to help students engage with complex concepts.
As a scientist, Dr. Sacco believes one of his most important roles is teaching students how we know what we know. By developing their ability to evaluate evidence and apply the scientific method, he prepares students with critical-thinking skills that will serve them throughout their careers.
Areas of Expertise
Molecular Toxicology
Pharmacogenetics
Xenobiotic Metabolism
Education
PhD Pharmaceutical Sciences - Medicinal Chemistry with a Toxicology concentration, University of Florida, 2006
MPh Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Malta, 1998
BPharm Honors, University of Malta, 1992
Courses Taught
PHAR 142 - Kinetics
Experience
Assistant Laboratory Scientist, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, 2008-2012
Post-Doctoral Laboratory Research Associate, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, 2006-2008
Graduate Laboratory Research Assistant, University of Florida Center for Human and Environmental Toxicology, 2005-2006
Graduate Laboratory Research Assistant, University of Florida College of Pharmacy
Principal Pharmacist, Eurocosmetic Ltd., 1998-2001
Laboratory Officer II, University of Malta Department of Pharmacy, 1993-2001
Professional Affiliations
American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP)
Society of Toxicology (SOT)
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
International Society for the Study of Xenobiotics (ISSX)
American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (ASPET)
Honors and Awards
Best Poster, Drake University Conference on Undergraduate Research in the Sciences (DUCURS), 2014
Best Post-Doctoral Abstract, Great Lakes Drug Metabolism Discussion Group, 2011
Finalist, ASPET Young Scientist Best Drug Metabolism Abstract Competition (Experimental Biology), 2009
International Student Award, University of Florida, 2006
Oral Research Presentation Finalist, University of Florida College of Pharmacy Annual Research Showcase Competition, 2006
Oral Research Presentation Winner, University of Florida College of Pharmacy Annual Research Showcase Competition, 2005
Oral Research Presentation Finalist, University of Florida College of Pharmacy Annual Research Showcase Competition, 2003
Graduate Student President, University of Florida College of Pharmacy, 2002-2006
Grinter Fellowship, University of Florida, 2001-2004
