Lewis Named Assistant Professor of Biology

Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) proudly announces the appointment of Assistant Professor of Biology Matthew Lewis, PhD, joining the faculty of the LMU School of Mathematics and Sciences.

Lewis brings a wealth of expertise and experience to LMU, with a strong educational background and a diverse work history in genetics and microbiology. He holds a doctorate in genetics and an MS in microbiology from Auburn University, as well as a BA in cell biology from Huntingdon College.

Hailing from Geneva, Alabama, Lewis's professional journey has been marked by significant contributions to research and academia. He served as a research associate at the Hudson Alpha Institute for Biotechnology, where he focused on epigenetics and conducted large-scale cancer studies. Subsequently, he transitioned to the Neurology Department at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he investigated Parkinson's Disease using genetics and microbiome analysis. Lewis managed lab operations, led clinical recruitment efforts, and contributed to groundbreaking research initiatives.

Lewis completed a post-doctoral fellowship at Auburn University, where he developed SNP-based diagnostic panels to understand fish populations. He also taught an agricultural genetics course and served as the interim director of the Southeast Fish Genetics Cooperative, providing essential genotyping services to private hatcheries and fish and game agencies in the southeastern United States.

Lewis's contributions extend beyond the realm of academia, with numerous publications in human medicine and fisheries science. Additionally, he has authored two books on fly fishing and contributed articles to various magazines on fly fishing topics.

Lewis is married to Jennifer, who serves as the STEM teacher for both Middlesboro Middle and High Schools. Together, they have a daughter and a son. In his leisure time, Lewis enjoys fly fishing and hunting.

"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Matthew Lewis to the LMU community," said Dean Adam Rollins,PhD. "His exceptional academic background, research accomplishments, and commitment to teaching make him an invaluable addition to our biology faculty."

Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in the liberal arts and professional studies.  The main campus is in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU, contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email at admissions@lmunet.edu.