Our featured McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) faculty member is Dr. Meghan Kelley. She is an assistant professor in the School of Health Sciences.
She combines animal and sensory physiology research with hands-on teaching to help students think like scientists and future health professionals.
Let’s get to know her better.
Where are you originally from?
I’m from Gibraltar, Michigan, a small island community south of Detroit along the Detroit River.
What brought you to Missouri State University?
After 10 years living in Alabama, coming to Missouri State felt a bit like coming home to the Midwest. I wanted to work at Missouri State because I liked and appreciated the university’s vision and the strength of its biomedical sciences program. During my interview, I saw a very collaborative environment where people could disagree on logistics but still work toward a shared goal. That mattered to me.
Where did you work prior to joining Missouri State?
I was an academic-teaching postdoctoral instructor in human anatomy and physiology (A&P) at the University of Alabama. In this role, I taught A&P and managed up to 32 sections of the lab. Simultaneously, I also continued my physiology-driven animal research.
Can you share your academic journey?
I completed both of my bachelor’s degrees through Lyman Briggs College, the science honors college at Michigan State University: a BS in Zoology in 2010 and a BS in History, Philosophy and Sociology of Science in 2011, along with a specialization in Bioethics and Humanities in Society.
In 2014, I completed my MS in Biology from John Carroll University. Later, I pursued a PhD in Biology from Auburn University in 2021, where I studied sensory physiology and social behavior in gopher tortoises.
What inspired you to pursue biology/physiology and higher education?
I’ve always known that I was interested in pursuing animal-based research. I once planned to be a veterinarian because I loved caring for pets. Working as a vet assistant, I saw how business-focused that path could be; whereas research and higher education allow me to stay immersed in science, continually asking questions, learning and teaching something new to others. I’ve never regretted this decision since finding this path.
Are there current trends in your field that you find exciting?
In my field of sensory physiology, I’m most interested in neurological pathways that shut down other physiological functions. It’s surprising how simple stressors can lead to long-lasting health effects. These scientific pathways are very exciting opportunities for research in the medical field to explore diseases like Alzheimer’s and developing proactive measures that help people take better care of their health.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I enjoy working with students and making a positive impact on their lives. I find fulfillment in student advising, teaching and mentoring them during both lectures and lab classes. I help them build confidence in their research work and write recommendations for them. Receiving a thank-you email from a student stating, “I’ve been accepted into my chosen program,” is an incredibly rewarding feeling for me.
What’s your teaching philosophy and how do you engage students in your class and research?
My teaching philosophy begins with a teacher-centered approach because I believe science requires shared vocabulary and step-by-step guidance. As we move forward, I transition to a student-centered learning model. I encourage students to take the lead in class discussions, ask questions that inspire case studies and actively take notes instead of simply following along with the slides.
What are you most grateful for this year?
I was in a serious car accident this August that totaled my vehicle and uncovered health issues I didn’t know I had. This entire experience brought me face-to-face with my mortality, and I felt it was a very close call for several reasons. I’m abundantly grateful to my husband, our son, our family and friends, as well as my colleagues and students.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
I love being outside with my husband and son. We enjoy hiking and nature walking, looking for animals, insects and plants to identify. My son and I enjoy painting together and working on seasonal art projects. Reading is also one of my favorite hobbies and I usually carry one or two books with me everywhere I go.
What might surprise people about you?
Fun facts about me — I was born on my oldest brother’s 24th birthday. I’ve been practicing martial arts since I was 7 years old and earned my black belt by the age of 12. My husband affectionately calls me a “hard head,” and I’ll admit I can be quite stubborn, like a bull at heart.
