Kevin Drace, Ph.D. 
Assistant Professor of Biology

    After earning my Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2008, I taught in the College of Liberal Arts at Mercer University for eight years. I then joined the faculty at Birmingham-Southern College, where I served as Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Biology until coming to Samford University.

 

     My research addresses the biological impact of heavy metal contamination from small-scale gold mines in Africa and Latin America. I actively involve undergraduate students in my research, providing them with valuable hands-on experience that have contributed to numerous publications, presentations, and grants.

 

    In 2015, the National Association of Biology Teachers awarded me the Biology Teaching Award for Excellence in Biology Education for my early contributions to Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs). And in 2019, I was honored with the Course Hero-Woodrow Wilson Fellowship for Excellence in Teaching, which supports outstanding educators who demonstrate excellence and a passion for teaching.

 

     My teaching approach centers on creating an open environment that cultivates mutual appreciation for biology. My dedication to excellence in teaching, innovative practices, and my commitment to research-based experiences contribute to the growth and success of my students. I live in Vestavia Hills with my wife (Wendi), children (Isla, Andrew, and Philip), and Roosevelt the Rhodesian Ridgeback.