PUC is happy to introduce Dr. Thomas D. Hile as the new associate professor of biology. From Cameroon, he earned his PhD in Biology from Loma Linda University in 2023, where he also completed postdoctoral research and focused on environmental microbiology and public health. His research included antimicrobial-resistant organisms, drinking water quality, environmental surface contamination, community air quality projects, and wastewater surveillance. After earning his degree, Thomas began teaching biology and health science courses at various institutions and universities, gaining experience working with students preparing for careers in nursing and other health professions.

At PUC, he will be teaching Human Anatomy, Histology, and Population Health and is looking forward to incorporating lab activities into his classes, such as microscopy, clinical applications, case studies, and public health examples. Thomas hopes his students evaluate evidence, ask meaningful questions, and understand how to think scientifically, not just memorize scientific facts, but apply what they learn in the real world. He also hopes students in his classes develop an appreciation for the complexity of the biological world and the human body, and see science as a way to understand the world and as a tool to serve others with compassion, competence, integrity, and purpose. 

“I was drawn to Pacific Union College because of its commitment to academic excellence, Christian education, and the integration of faith and learning,” Thomas said. “I wanted to join an institution where I could combine my passion for science, teaching, research, and service while developing meaningful relationships with students. PUC’s emphasis on educating the whole person and preparing students for lives of service strongly aligns with the kind of educator I strive to be.”

What are you most looking forward to with your students and department this upcoming school year?

I am looking forward to getting to know my students and colleagues and becoming part of the PUC community. In the classroom, I am especially excited about helping students connect what they learn in textbooks and laboratories with real-world biological and health problems. I also look forward to collaborating with colleagues in the department and exploring opportunities to involve students in research.

What first sparked your excitement for science and biology?

My interest in biology developed from a curiosity about how living systems work and how scientific knowledge can be used to improve human health. Over time, that curiosity grew into a particular interest in microbiology, human biology, environmental health, and public health. What continues to excite me about biology is that discoveries at the cellular or microbial level can ultimately have meaningful effects on individuals and entire communities.

What are you most passionate about in your field of study?

I am especially passionate about human anatomy and understanding the remarkable organization of the human body. I find it fascinating how individual structures, from cells and tissues to organs and entire body systems, are precisely organized and interconnected to sustain life.

What excites me most is helping students move beyond simply memorizing anatomical structures to understanding why those structures matter and how anatomy relates to physiology, health, disease, and clinical practice. I particularly enjoy seeing the moment when students begin to make those connections and realize that anatomy is not just something to memorize; it is the foundation for understanding the human body and caring for others.

How do you stay current with developments in your field?

I stay current by reading scientific literature, following publications from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, participating in professional development, and keeping up with emerging research in biology, environmental health, and public health. I also find that preparing to teach is one of the best ways to stay current. Students often ask questions that encourage me to revisit the literature and look at familiar subjects from a new perspective.

What would students be surprised to find out about you?

I enjoy playing pickleball. 

Where is your dream vacation?

My dream vacation would be to visit Israel. I would love to experience firsthand the places I have read about in the Bible and explore the historical and cultural settings where so many significant events took place. Visiting places such as Jerusalem, the Sea of Galilee, and other biblical sites would bring to life the history and stories I have studied throughout my life in a very meaningful way.

Finish this sentence: On Sunday mornings, you can find me…

Spending time with my family, reading or working on.