Dr. Andrew W. Woodward

I am a molecular biologist with a particular interest in the molecular genetics of plant development. I love teaching Biology. A lifelong Texan, I grew up on a Central Texas cattle ranch and earned my B.A. and Ph.D. at Rice University in Houston. As an undergraduate, I double majored in Biology and Biochemistry. In my graduate work, I investigated the roles of several genes in shaping plant development.

I was fascinated by biology at an early age. On the ranch, I enjoyed thinking about how energy from the sun was being captured by plants, and this solar energy was passed along to the cattle as they grazed. It amazes me to think that steak and salad are both built of molecules from the air glued together using energy from the sun.

In high school, I had the opportunity to tutor other students, and I found that I enjoyed teaching. I consider it a privilege to witness the moment when someone first arrives at a new understanding. The moment can arrive in the classroom, the laboratory, the library, or anywhere. The science fiction writer Isaac Asimov is credited with saying that “the most exciting phrase to hear in science, the one that heralds new discoveries, is not ‘Eureka!’ (I found it!) but rather, ‘Hmm... that's funny...’”

As a Rice undergraduate, I served as a recitation leader for Introductory Biology and as a Biosciences Writing Mentor. I also began working in a plant molecular biology lab. This excellent lab experience reinforced my plan to attend graduate school. After earning my Ph.D., I worked as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Southwestern University and at St. Edward’s University. I have taught a wide variety of biology courses, including Molecular Biology, Cellular Physiology, Plant Physiology, Microbiology, Genes & Molecules, Ecology & Evolution, and Cells, Genetics, & Organ Systems.

Outside of the university, I am an active member of Lexington United Methodist Church. I have held a number of leadership positions in my church, including service as the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees for 2010 and 2011, Lay Leader 2013-2018, and Finance Chairperson since the beginning of 2019.

I enjoy spending time exploring Texas natural areas with my wife and daughters. I am a member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, The Texas Academy of Science, and The American Society of Plant Biologists.

In addition to working with students in the classroom, I enjoy student research collaborations. I am always looking for eager students to conduct independent projects investigating basic aspects of development and nutrition. Students who work with me study mutants and identify the underlying DNA mutations.

I enjoy my work as a venue for talking about science. If you share that interest, please stop by for a conversation.