Oney P. Smith

Oney P. Smith is a Professor of Biology at Hood College teaching undergraduate and graduate courses including BIOL 113 (Newsstand Biology), BIOL 203 (Intro Cell Biology & Genetics), and BIOL 434 (Applied Molecular Genetics) from his office in Hodson Science and Technology Center, Room 147.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Entomology from Texas A&M University
• M.S. in Entomology from the University of Maine
• B.S. in Biology from the University of Vermont

Dr. Smith's research evolved from plant virus-insect vector systems (notably potato viruses) to molecular biology applications including gene expression in sea anemones and development of project-based laboratory curricula. His USDA-ARS postdoctoral work at Fort Detrick focused on agriculturally threatening plant pathogens, resulting in practical detection technologies.

His scientific recognition includes:

• Senior authorship on USDA-ARS patent for PCR-based wheat fungal pathogen detection

Dr. Smith has mentored numerous undergraduate researchers who progressed to graduate programs and life science careers. He integrates practical agricultural security concerns into his teaching while maintaining active community engagement through Hood College athletics and fly fishing on the Monocacy River.