Dr. Brian Shmaefsky, LSC-Kingwood professor, conducted marine biology research in the Gulf of Mexico with the National Marine Sanctuaries Program.
Dr. Brian Shmaefsky did not let barriers deter him from turning his childhood fascination into reality.
Shmaefsky, a biology and environmental science professor at Lone Star College-Kingwood, developed his love for science by watching nature documentaries and reading science books. However, he believed early on that was not the path for him.
“As a child, I wanted to work as a wildlife scientist or marine biologist. Unfortunately, since I did not have the grades, funds, and motivation to attend college, I just thought I would never be a scientist,” he said. “Eventually, when I did attend college, I discovered that I did well in the sciences and pursued degrees in biology and environmental science.”
Shmaefsky has worked in the science field since 1979 in different positions such as greenhouse assistant, animal laboratory technician, industrial biochemist, lecturer, and professor. In 1992, he became a full-time biology instructor at LSC-Kingwood.
“I enjoy teaching. I’ve developed a passion for making students understand how science affects every aspect of their lives,” Shmaefsky said. “I want scientific knowledge to be accessible to all people, and I do this through my teaching.”
At LSC-Kingwood, Shmaefsky is an environmental science professor, chair of the Institutional Review Board for Lone Star College, and a professional development fellow. He also formalized the college’s Service Learning Program with funding from the American Association of Community Colleges in 2003.
“I find much value engaging students in debates about the social implications of scientific knowledge and technological developments,” he said. “My students also analyze case studies on environmental policy and environmental justice. I also have them apply their environmental science knowledge in community service projects.”
Shmaefsky recently earned the Two-Year College Teaching Award from the National Association of Biology Teachers. Additionally, he has written several scientific papers and book chapters in his field. He’s also published numerous peer-reviewed articles on science teaching.
“My specialty is environmental physiology, where I research physiological responses to disease and aging. My favorite publications are readership books on deadly diseases,” he said.
Shmaefsky earned a Bachelor of Science in biology from Brooklyn College of CUNY; a Master of Science in environmental physiology from Southern Illinois University; and an Ed.D in science training and education from Southern Illinois University. He has completed studies at Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory and did Ph.D. (ABD) studies in environmental physiology at the University of Illinois.