Buchan Heads Microbiology Department
Professor Alison Buchan is focused on continuing research excellence and preparing the next generation of scientists as she leads the department.
The new head of the Department of Microbiology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has more than a decade of experience in leadership with the department.
Alison Buchan, Carolyn W. Fite Professor and David and Sandra White Professor, joined UT in 2005 as an assistant professor and became associate head of the microbiology department in 2012.
“It is both an honor and a tremendous responsibility to serve as department head,” she said. “Having spent my entire faculty career at UT, I’ve had the opportunity to watch this department grow and evolve, and I’m excited to help guide its next chapter.”
“UT microbiology uniquely bridges environmental, medical, and applied microbiology, studying microbes from Earth’s most diverse environments to their roles in climate, health, disease, and biotechnology,” Buchan said. “My goal is to build on our long tradition of research excellence while continuing to foster a collaborative, supportive environment where faculty, staff, and students can thrive.”
In 2024, Buchan was elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), a recognition by her peers of extraordinary achievements. Her studies into the physiology and ecology of marine microbes provides insights that could lead to solutions for dealing with issues ranging from antibiotic resistance to breaking down plastic and other waste in the environment.
Buchan also is an elected fellow of the American Society of Microbiology and her honors include an SEC Faculty Achievement Award.
“I’m proud of the collaborative nature of my research program,” Buchan said. “Over the past two decades, my laboratory has worked to understand how marine bacteria and the viruses that infect them shape ocean ecosystems and global biogeochemical cycles.”
“Equally important to me has been mentoring the next generation of scientists,” she said.
Buchan took her first microbiology course as a second-year student and was enthralled, particularly when working in the lab. “What captivated me then (and still does today) is that these microscopic organisms have an enormous influence on the world around us. They drive the Earth’s nutrient cycles, shape the health of ecosystems, influence the wellbeing of plants, animals, and humans, and ultimately make life on our planet possible. I’m still amazed by the remarkable abilities and influence of what is often called the ‘unseen majority.’”
She also saw as an undergraduate student the value of faculty mentors. “My professor invited me to help prepare materials for the teaching laboratory the following year, and soon after, he asked if I’d like to join his research group studying microbes in nearby rivers and streams,” she said. “That experience completely changed the direction of my career.”
Today she values the collaboration and community in UT’s Department of Microbiology. “As department head, I hope to build on that culture while continuing to support innovative research, outstanding teaching, and for students to gain hands-on experience and develop career-ready skills,” Buchan said.
“Microbiology has never been more relevant: from human health to agriculture to climate and environmental sustainability,” she said. “I’m excited about the role our department can play in addressing these challenges while preparing the next generation of scientists.”
by Amy Beth Miller