Jeff Shaver

Jeff Shaver is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith (UAFS), joining the faculty in 2017. His work spans research, teaching, and service, with a focus on cell and molecular biology, genetics, plant physiology, biotechnology, and biology teacher licensure.

• Ph.D. in Biology, University of Washington (2008)
• B.S. in Biology, Purdue University (2001)
• Principal Certification in Education Administration, Angelo State University (2017)

Dr. Shaver's research explores microbiomes, antibiotic resistance, and organelle DNA structure, often involving collaborations with UAFS undergraduates. His recent work investigates the interplay between ecosystem restoration and microbial dynamics, as well as novel therapeutic strategies against bacterial infections.

He actively contributes to service roles, including serving as President-Elect of the Arkansas Academy of Science, Vice President of the Arkansas Academy of Science, and membership on the Arkansas INBRE Steering Committee.

• Top Poster Award at 2022 UAFS Student Research Symposium

Dr. Shaver mentors students on projects such as the Dictyostelium discoideum host-microbe model, tallgrass prairie restoration, and drug screening for antibiotic resistance. His lab emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to understanding microbial communities and developing anti-virulence therapeutics.