Heather Ayala

Dr. Heather Ayala is Chair and Associate Professor of Biology & Biochemistry at Belmont Abbey College. She specializes in malaria parasite genomics and biology education, with a focus on Plasmodium falciparum research and textbook development. Her work bridges scientific research and pedagogy, reflected in publications like General Biology (2019) and peer-reviewed articles on malaria parasite growth dynamics. Dr. Ayala holds a BS in Biology from Azusa Pacific University and a PhD in Biological Sciences from the University of Notre Dame.

Research Interests: Dr. Ayala’s research explores genetic dissection of malaria parasite growth traits and their relationship to drug resistance. She also advocates for classical education methods in biology, authoring textbooks for K-12 audiences. Her findings contribute to understanding Plasmodium falciparum’s molecular mechanisms and improving science education accessibility.

Awards: Recipient of the 2022 Belmont Abbey College Adrian Teaching Award, recognizing her innovative instructional approaches and student engagement. Her work has been presented at venues including the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH) and the Molecular Parasitology Meeting.

Advising & Grants: While specific grants are not detailed, her research at the University of Notre Dame (2002–2007) likely involved collaborative projects. She mentors students through courses like Parasitology and Organismal Diversity. Active in professional organizations such as Sigma Zeta and ASTMH, she bridges academic and applied science.

Labs/Teams: Formerly conducted lab research at the University of Notre Dame, focusing on Plasmodium falciparum genetics. Currently leads Belmont Abbey’s Biology & Biochemistry department, fostering undergraduate research and interdisciplinary collaboration.