TANYA VICKERS

Tanya Vickers brings over 30 years of experience in teaching, mentoring, curriculum development, and science communication. At the University of Utah, she has served as Director of ACCESS Scholars, developed innovative courses such as Biology in the 21st Century and Science in a Changing World, and created game-based instructional materials for the U of U Medical School dermatology curriculum. Vickers is deeply committed to student success, both as a mentor and instructor, by making science accessible in her classroom and by helping students identify research opportunities that complement their academic goals.

Beyond higher education, Vickers founded the AMES high school research and science fair program, which has connected high school students with University of Utah resources and mentorship. This initiative introduced students to the scientific process and helped many make a successful transition into college. She is also an advocate for Utah's environmental issues, having served on the board of directors for Breathe Utah, a nonprofit focused on improving air quality in the Salt Lake Valley and greater Utah. In this role, she contributed to K-12 air quality curriculum development, presented in classrooms and at community events.

Vickers’ diverse experiences shape her approach to teaching. In the classroom, she uses a narrative style that ties scientific concepts to real-world issues, history, and ethical considerations, helping students see the relevance of biology and science in addressing complex challenges. Peer engagement through problem-solving and scholarly dialogue is central to the learning environment she fosters.

Most recently, Vickers has applied her expertise in teaching and outreach as the Communications Editor for the School of Biological Sciences, where she manages all aspects of communications, from social media to newsletters and website content.