Fri Sep 12, 2025: Restart. Refocus. Rise: DMU’s Post-Bacc Anatomy Program for Future Physicians

Dr. Muhammad Spocter is an accomplished biological anthropologist with more than 16 years of teaching and advising experience in undergraduate and graduate programs. Growing up in an environment where academic guidance was often hard to access, Dr. Spocter’s journey to becoming a scientist was fueled by curiosity, determination, and the pursuit of mentorship. These personal experiences drive his deep commitment to supporting students from all backgrounds, especially those navigating limited access to advising and academic resources. Known for his inclusive approach, he has published widely on brain evolution (more than 70 published articles) and has received multiple prestigious awards, including the Carnegie Alumni Diaspora Fellowship, Iowa Governor’s STEM BEST® Award, Distinguished Scholar Award and the Multicultural Affairs Diversity Champion Award at Des Moines University. He has held several scientific leadership positions including as board member of the Science Center of Iowa, Iowa Science Foundation, and president of the J.B. Johnston Club for Evolutionary Neuroscience. Dr. Spocter also has a record of successful leadership in research-funded STEM education projects and is recognized for his mentorship and dedication to community engagement and supporting underrepresented and pre-health learners on their academic journeys.
Before joining Des Moines University, his teaching experience included the University of Witwatersrand (South Africa), University of California (Santa-Barbara), and The George Washington University (DC).  He is admired by students for turning complex topics into accessible, inspiring lessons, and his story underscores that success in science and medicine is rarely linear, but relies on curiosity, resilience, and making the most of supportive communities. 

In his presentation, Dr. Spocter will share insights from his own career path, highlighting the importance of perseverance, inquiry, and the support of structured academic programs like Des Moines University’s Masters of Science in Anatomy Program.

Dr. Muhammad Spocter is an accomplished biological anthropologist with more than 16 years of teaching and advising experience in undergraduate and graduate programs. Growing up in an environment where academic guidance was often hard to access, Dr. Spocter’s journey to becoming a scientist was fueled by curiosity, determination, and the pursuit of mentorship. These personal experiences drive his deep commitment to supporting students from all backgrounds, especially those navigating limited access to advising and academic resources. Known for his inclusive approach, he has published widely on brain evolution (more than 70 published articles) and has received multiple prestigious awards, including the Carnegie Alumni Diaspora Fellowship, Iowa Governor’s STEM BEST® Award, Distinguished Scholar Award and the Multicultural Affairs Diversity Champion Award at Des Moines University. He has held several scientific leadership positions including as board member of the Science Center of Iowa, Iowa Science Foundation, and president of the J.B. Johnston Club for Evolutionary Neuroscience. Dr. Spocter also has a record of successful leadership in research-funded STEM education projects and is recognized for his mentorship and dedication to community engagement and supporting underrepresented and pre-health learners on their academic journeys.
Before joining Des Moines University, his teaching experience included the University of Witwatersrand (South Africa), University of California (Santa-Barbara), and The George Washington University (DC).  He is admired by students for turning complex topics into accessible, inspiring lessons, and his story underscores that success in science and medicine is rarely linear, but relies on curiosity, resilience, and making the most of supportive communities. 
In his presentation, Dr. Spocter will share insights from his own career path, highlighting the importance of perseverance, inquiry, and the support of structured academic programs like Des Moines University’s Masters of Science in Anatomy Program.

Tessa Johnson started at Des Moines University in 2019 as an Admissions Assistant, and she has now held the role of Recruitment and Admissions Specialist for three years. Ms. Johnson earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities. She works directly with applicants to the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine and Master of Science in Anatomy programs at DMU and enjoys learning about each student’s unique story while reviewing applications. She is passionate about connecting prospective students with information, mentorship, and support during their pre-med or pre-health journey. Ms. Johnson is dedicated to advancing Des Moines University’s mission to improve lives in our global community by educating diverse groups of highly competent and compassionate health professionals.