Dr. Debra Boyd-kimball

Biography

DR. DEBRA BOYD-KIMBALL Teaching Area(s): Chemistry Title: Associate Professor of Chemistry Courses Taught: Concepts in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Neurochemistry Career I chose biochemistry as my field of study because I have always been interested in the interface between chemistry and medicine and I also don’t like to accept answers at face value; I want to answer the “why?” questions and biochemistry helped me to understand how to do that with respect to a living system. I think it is my passion for questioning and learning that led me to a career in teaching as every day I get to work with students as they develop the skills to answer their own questions. Students My proudest professional accomplishments are those of my students and learning about the wonderful things that they have done in their lives beyond Mount Union. Teaching Style I have used a variety of techniques over the years to get students engaged in the content of my classes. This includes problem-based learning, case studies, group projects, student-led discussion and presentations. Students must have a strong foundation to build on, and that foundation is reinforced every time they have to apply, or extend, a concept. Best Part of Teaching My favorite part of this job is getting to know my students well and watching them develop, mature and succeed over the time they spend at Mount Union. Bracy Hall Bracy Hall was designed to showcase the science going on in the building. Also, the building was designed to let in and use a lot of natural light—a feature I absolutely love! Having worked in a number of other teaching and research environments, I can honestly say that I feel spoiled by the facility that is Bracy Hall. Teamwork The University is genuinely student-centered. There is no air of superiority or pretentiousness within, or across, the boundaries of staff and student. We all work together, and we work every day with and for the students. Preparing Students We work every day to expose students to new concepts and ideas and to inspire them to ask questions. We help students figure out how to find the answer. As an institution, we can provide them with the framework to inspire students to continue learning throughout their lives, and we train them with the skills and ability to make that happen. Research Interests I am interested in the neurochemistry that underlies Alzheimer’s disease. As such, I study the effect of interventions such as diet, exercise, and mental activity on oxidative stress in the brain. Education B.S., Chemistry, Bethany College Ph.D., Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kentucky

Research Interest

neurochemistry