Amanda Zirzow

Amanda Zirzow is a Professor of Biological Sciences within the School of Pure and Applied Sciences at Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW), where she has served since 2016. She teaches General Biology and Microbiology courses while integrating hands-on research into undergraduate education through her soil-derived Streptomyces antibiotic discovery project.

Education:

• Master of Science in Biology, George Mason University
• Bachelor of Science in Biology, George Mason University
• PhD Program (Incomplete), Georgetown University (passed qualifying exam)

Her research focuses on microbial diversity and antibiotic discovery through environmental sampling, particularly soil-derived Streptomyces species. This work bridges environmental microbiology and undergraduate education, providing students with authentic research experiences. Her broader interests span molecular mechanisms in disease (NAFLD, cardiovascular disorders) and nano-biotechnology applications, reflecting a career trajectory from laboratory-based medical research toward educational innovation in microbiology.

Analysis of her publication history reveals an evolution from disease-focused molecular research (2010-2013) toward educational scholarship (2024), with consistent emphasis on microbial systems. Recent work prioritizes pedagogical innovation in biology education, while earlier publications demonstrate expertise in hepatic pathology, antifungal resistance mechanisms, and nanodelivery systems.

Awards and Recognition:

• Academic Research Council Grant Award
• Ecological Society of America 4DEE Education Scholar
• RUI University Fellow (Naples, FL)
• NIH Technical Intramural Research Training Award Fellow

Professor Zirzow actively mentors undergraduates through her antibiotic discovery research project, providing rare hands-on laboratory experience. She has secured significant grant funding including the Academic Research Council award to support her educational initiatives. Her community engagement extends through environmental stewardship roles and integration of artistic expression with scientific outreach.

She maintains active community partnerships as a Calusa Waterkeeper ranger and Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum Shell Ambassador, while her nature-inspired artwork is exhibited through Arts for ACT Gallery. These roles demonstrate her commitment to connecting scientific practice with environmental conservation and public education.