Breeann Kyte Kirby

Breeann Kyte Kirby is a Professor of Writing and Environmental Studies and Assistant Dean at the School of Humanities, Arts, and Public Engagement at Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU). With a dual background in molecular biology and creative writing, she bridges science, literature, and art through interdisciplinary collaborations and teaching. As owner of Wholon, a hub connecting scientists and artists, she fosters cross-disciplinary dialogue.

• Education:
  • Ph.D. in Creative Writing, Bath Spa University
  • M.F.A. in Creative Writing, San Diego State University
  • M.S. in Molecular Biology, San Diego State University
  • M.A. in English Literature, University of West Florida
  • B.S. in Biochemistry and B.A. in Literature, Point Loma Nazarene University

Her research interests span speculative fiction, creative nonfiction, and microbial ecology. She explores the human microbiome’s influence on health and identity, often integrating scientific concepts into literary forms. Her publications include peer-reviewed research, poetry, and hybrid narratives.

Recent publications highlight her interdisciplinary approach, such as the 2017 poetry collection Phages in Love, the 2016 hybrid fiction 45 Larem Lane, and the 2015 nonfiction pieces on microbial ecology and women’s work. She contributes to platforms like Orion Magazine and The Scientist, emphasizing science-art convergence.

Kirby’s professional activities include organizing the Year of the Phage Meeting (2015) and curating collaborative projects like LIVE UNITED! (2018–2019). She maintains blogs such as Sciencereasoncalifornia and There / Here, focusing on microbial science and place-based artistic collaboration.