Dr. Tanja McKay is Appointed Department Chair for Biological Sciences
JONESBORO – Dr. Jennifer Bouldin, dean of the College of Sciences and Mathematics, has announced Dr. Tanja McKay as the chair of the Department of Biological Sciences. Dr. McKay has served as interim chair since June 2023.
“Dr. McKay has earned the respect of her colleagues in the Department of Biological Sciences and has proven herself to be an effective and capable leader,” Bouldin said. “Her ability to work collaboratively with faculty and staff has been instrumental in maintaining a positive and productive work environment. As interim chair, she demonstrated a commitment to fairness and respect, and has consistently upheld the highest standards of professionalism and excellence.”
After joining A-State’s faculty in 2004, McKay became associate professor and achieved tenure in 2009, then was promoted to full professor of entomology in 2015. Her previous administrative experience at A-State includes serving as associate department chair, and director of the graduate programs in environmental sciences and molecular biosciences.
In addition to teaching and mentoring at the undergraduate and graduate levels, she devoted much of her 19 years of her academic career to research. She has secured more than $9 million in grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture – National Institute of Food and Agriculture, National Science Foundation, and other sources.
McKay’s research interests include integrated pest management of stored product insects, both on-farm and in rice milling, integrated mosquito management related to canine heartworm interactions, dung beetles and their importance in cattle pastures, and controlling flies using biological control in poultry and dairy facilities.
“We have a fantastic team of talented faculty, staff and students in the Department of Biological Sciences, and I appreciate them all in trusting me to lead the department,” McKay commented.
“This role presents an exciting opportunity to collaborate with colleagues across many departments and contribute to the growth and success of our academic community here at Arkansas State University,” she added. “I look forward to working on new endeavors that will enhance the department's research, teaching, service, and overall impact to the community and state.”
The Department of Biological Sciences has more than 500 students enrolled in its eight degree programs, including those at A-State’s Campus Querétaro in Mexico.
