Lee Hughes

Dr. Lee Hughes is an Associate Professor of Biology and Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies at the University of North Texas (UNT) College of Science. His research spans two domains: (1) microbiology, focusing on bacteriophages infecting Streptomyces and their genomic diversity, and (2) science education research, emphasizing early research experiences for biology majors and innovative teaching strategies like blended and online learning.

• Education: B.S. in English, M.S. in Biology, Ph.D. in Microbiology – all from UNT.

In microbiology, Dr. Hughes leads UNT's Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science (PHAGES) program, a Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Science Education Alliance initiative. His lab isolates novel Streptomyces-infecting phages to study their genetic elements, evolutionary relationships, and potential applications in biotechnology and medical microbiology. Recent publications highlight his work on phage genome sequencing, cluster classification, and diversity analysis across bacterial genera.

In science education, he investigates pedagogical frameworks that enhance student engagement and retention, particularly for historically underrepresented groups in STEM. His research includes program evaluations (e.g., NSF-funded FOCUS Scholarships) and development of assessment tools like the Microbiology Concept Inventory to identify and address student misconceptions.

Current grant-funded projects include the NIH G-RISE (Graduate Research Training Initiative for Student Enhancement) grant (2021–2026), where he serves as Co-PI, and ongoing HHMI-affiliated education initiatives.

Prospective students may engage with Dr. Hughes' research through the UNT PHAGES program or the Research Experiences and Activities in Life Sciences (REALSCI) webpage. His lab's work bridges cutting-edge genomics and transformative educational practices, fostering training opportunities at both undergraduate and graduate levels.