Julie Shaffer

Dr. Julie Shaffer serves as the Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK), a role she assumed in April 2024 after serving as interim since August 2023. Previously, she held academic roles in UNK's Department of Biology, including Professor (since 2010), Associate Professor (2004–2010), department chair (2017–2023), and online director. Her expertise spans microbial ecology and tickborne pathogens, with extensive grant-funded research and teaching innovations. She mentors student researchers and has contributed to curricular reforms in biology programs.

Education: Bachelor’s degrees in Biology and English (University of Sioux Falls), Ph.D. in Biology (University of Nebraska-Lincoln, microbial physiology emphasis).

Research Interests: Focuses on microbial ecology and tickborne pathogens, with publications in academic journals and $6M+ in grant funding. Engages in interdisciplinary projects and STEM education initiatives.

• Awards: 2010 Pratt-Heins Teaching Award; 2014 Leland Holdt/Security Mutual Life Distinguished Faculty Award (UNK’s highest honor).
• Leadership: Nebraska Academy of Sciences past president; Missouri Valley Branch of the American Society of Microbiology past president; member of AAAS, NSTA, ACUBE, ESA, and NABT.

Advising & Grants: Guided numerous student researchers; led departmental program reviews and academic committees. Current fellow at the National Strategic Research Institute (UN System).