Dr. David J. Porta teaches Anatomy & Physiology and Gross Anatomy while mentoring undergraduate research students. He is an anatomist working primarily in the area of trauma biomechanics. His ongoing projects attempt to clarify human tolerance to impact forces (several studies utilizing human cadaver specimens) and define the mechanisms of injury in motor vehicle accidents and sporting environments. This work has both scientific and forensic value.  He has collaborated with engineers, medical examiners, orthopedic surgeons, and emergency physicians in addition to law enforcement personnel.