In Memoriam: Paul Wanda, PhD, Professor of Biological Sciences
The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville community mourns the passing of Paul Wanda, PhD, professor of Biological Sciences, who passed away on Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025.
Born October 18, 1951, in Chicago, Wanda retired in 2015 after a dedicated career mentoring students and advancing scientific inquiry. He joined SIUE’s faculty in 1982 and had more than 30 years of service to the University.
Wanda’s research focus was in measles and canine distemper virology, macular degeneration modeling, apoptosis, biophysics and electron spin resonance spectroscopy. At SIUE, he taught a diverse catalogue of microbiology and biophysics courses.
Wanda earned his PhD in biophysics from Penn State University and a BA in Physics from Knox College. He was not only a passionate educator but also an avid fisherman, chess player, St. Louis Blues fan, and artist. Paul had a notorious sense of humor that glimmered brightly beyond the Department of Biological Sciences. He was known for his commitment to student success and his ability to inspire future scientists through both rigorous academics and personal mentorship.
A memorial celebration will be held Friday, Feb. 14, from 3-5 p.m. at Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, Ill.
Memorials can be made to the WashU Section of Movement Disorders.
A family obituary is available at Barry Wilson Funeral Home.
PHOTO: Paul Wanda
