Brian S. Burnes

Brian S. Burnes serves as Associate Professor of Biology within the School of Sciences & Mathematics at Mississippi University for Women, bringing over 20 years of expertise in microbial ecology and biology education. His academic journey spans multiple institutions across the Southeastern United States.

Dr. Burnes earned his Ph.D. in Applied Biology from the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he investigated manganese-respiring mechanisms in aquatic bacteria. Prior to academia, he served as Senior Microbiologist for Atlanta's first regional environmental impact statement. His career includes faculty positions at Judson College (Marion, AL) and the University of West Alabama (Livingston) before joining Mississippi University for Women.

His research centers on Environmental Microbiology and Microbial Ecology, with significant contributions to Infectious Disease Prevention through Alabama-wide water quality monitoring and microbial source-tracking initiatives. Current work focuses on Phage Genomics and Bioinformatics via the SEA-PHAGES program, where he leads Spring 2025 coursework in Arthobacter globiformis analysis for 4 freshmen students.

Dr. Burnes maintains active involvement in scientific community initiatives including the Science Education Alliance, directing in silico phage genomics projects and participating in national workshops. He resides in Livingston, Alabama, with his wife (a History professor) in a historic 117-year-old home shared with rescued stray dogs.