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Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Jason Taylor, Dean, School of Natural and Social Sciences
Chair, Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences; Director, Academic Summer; Professor of Chemistry; Adjunct Professor of First-Year Seminar
- Ph.D. (2002) Bioanalytical Chemistry, Indiana University. Bloomington, IN
- B.S. (1997) Chemistry, Baldwin-Wallace College, Berea, OH
Tell us all about summer camps! What are you most excited about?
I love that high school students get a chance to ‘try out a major’ for a week while living on campus and discover if that is something that they are interested in pursuing in college.
It is a transformative experience for so many of the students (and the faculty, staff, and student counselors helping with the camps) each summer.
I started out teaching in the forensic science camp early on and now have moved into directing the camps.
It has become one of my highlights of the year working with these students from all over the country. We even have several international students participating this year!
Learn more about Roberts’ summer camps, whose topics span from nursing, psychology, music therapy, and more!
What brought you to Roberts?
I always had a desire to teach at a Christian college.
I attended one such university as an undergraduate student and was significantly impacted by several professors in my program.
Since that time, I felt called to teach at a small Christian liberal arts college that would give me a chance to give back to students in a similar way.
Interestingly, I thought it would be somewhere in the midwest near where I grew up.
However, I met Dr. David Roll (a former Roberts Organic Chemistry. Biochemistry and Human Biology Professor) on sabbatical at the University of Maryland where I was teaching for one year after finishing my Ph.D.
I discovered Roberts had an opening for a chemistry professor and was eventually hired in 2003.
How long have you been teaching here?
I just finished my 19th year.
When did you start becoming interested in your subject?
I always had an interest in the sciences in high school and eventually settled on studying biochemistry in college because I loved the mix of biology and chemistry courses.
Share an academic highlight from your time at Roberts.
I love teaching alongside our math and science students in our Adopt-a-School Program each semester.
Through the years, we have worked with 3rd and 4th grade students initially at School #36 and then later at School #3 in Rochester to teach hands-on math and science lessons throughout the school year helping them with core concepts as they prepare for STEM assessments and standardized exams.
What is your favorite thing about teaching?
I just love being at a place where I can stress academics in the classroom, but also get a chance to mentor students regularly during their time here, both academically and spiritually.
If you could make everyone understand one thing about your subject, what would it be and why?
There are some individuals that like to say science and faith in God are at odds with one another. I feel the opposite.
The more I study God’s creation and the intricate system of biochemical pathways and mechanisms in place to sustain our lives on a daily basis, I can’t help but stand in awe of an amazing Creator that put all of this in motion!
What is a highlight from your own spiritual journey during your time at Roberts?
Taking part in leading the Habitat for Humanity trips each year with students has been an incredible experience for both my wife and I.
We have taken over 15 trips to various Habitat Affiliates in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Louisiana, and South Carolina.
Working alongside our students to help build a home for individuals in need has had such an impact on my life!
It’s amazing watching students make that connection, as President Porterfield regularly states, between their head and heart through their hands in service to help transform the lives of others.
What is the most helpful advice you’ve received?
Be yourself! God created you individually and perfectly to leave your imprint on this world.
Be courageous and step out in faith as He directs you!
What is an interest you have outside of teaching?
I love to hang out with my kids playing sports or just about any activity with them.
I go hiking or mountain biking any chance I get!
In my free time, I play guitar.
I actually met my wife in graduate school leading worship together for a campus ministry through our church.
Student Insights
Lydia Ware
"I have been blessed to have Dr. Taylor as both my professor in chemistry and my academic advisor. I have found Dr. Taylor to be warm and welcoming towards new students, a knowledgeable teacher, patient, and dedicated to each of his students.
"He’s been an example of the Biblical characteristics of gentleness and Christian community. I am grateful for the ways that Dr. Taylor has supported me as a student and contributed in huge ways to our community here!"