Kevin Sorensen

Kevin Sorensen serves as a Professor in the Biological Sciences department within Snow College's College of Natural Science and Mathematics, teaching foundational courses including Biology I, Introductory Microbiology, and associated laboratories for Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 semesters.

His academic journey began with an Associate of Science from Snow College (1987), followed by a Biology degree with Microbiology emphasis and Chemistry minor from Utah State University (1990). He earned advanced degrees in Molecular Biology (M.S., 1994) and Biology (Ph.D., 1997) from USU, culminating in a Post-doctoral Fellowship at Stanford University (1997-1999).

Dr. Sorensen's research centers on antimicrobial chemotherapy with specialized focus on antifungal agents and fungal pathogenesis. His work bridges laboratory discovery of novel compounds like syringomycin E from Pseudomonas syringae with translational development of animal models for pulmonary aspergillosis, vaginal candidiasis, and coccidioidal meningitis. This integrative approach connects microbial genetics, drug delivery systems, and preclinical therapeutic evaluation.

Analysis of his publication history reveals consistent emphasis on antifungal drug efficacy testing, particularly examining liposomal formulations of amphotericin B and comparative studies of azoles versus newer agents like terbinafine. His work demonstrates methodological evolution from in vitro assays to complex murine and rabbit infection models, reflecting deepening clinical relevance over time.

No scientific awards or major honors are documented in the source materials.

As an undergraduate mentor, Dr. Sorensen has guided student research across diverse microbiological applications, including UV-protection efficacy testing using Serratia marcescens, biochemical analysis of homemade root beer fermentation, and genetic comparisons of cellulose synthase in plants. His laboratory functions as a training ground for hands-on scientific inquiry, though specific grant funding details remain unreported.

The research environment centers on antimicrobial discovery and testing, leveraging Snow College's facilities for both basic microbiological investigations and applied therapeutic development projects.