Kathryn Kohl

Kathryn Kohl serves as Associate Professor of Biology at Winthrop University, actively contributing to the HHMI Science Education Alliance-Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science (SEA-PHAGES) program. This national initiative integrates bacteriophage discovery and genomic analysis into undergraduate curricula through structured research experiences.

Her work focuses on Microbiology and Genomics education, emphasizing hands-on phage isolation, genome sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis. Through SEA-PHAGES, she develops pedagogical frameworks like the Phage Discovery Guide and Bioinformatics Guide to advance authentic research training for students.

Dr. Kohl organizes key program events including the annual Phage Genomics Workshop (December 2025) and SEA Symposium (April 2026), fostering collaboration across 200+ institutions. The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) provides primary funding for these initiatives, supporting undergraduate research infrastructure and professional development.

As part of the SEA leadership team, she contributes to program governance through faculty meetings and forums, addressing curriculum development and resource sharing for phage genomics education nationwide.