UNC System Honors N.C. A&T Microbiologist Jeffers-Francis with Teaching Excellence Award

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Feb. 19, 2025) – A distinguished microbiologist, educator and mentor at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University whose contributions to the understanding of virology, immunology and bacterial evolution have had a profound impact on the scientific community has been awarded one of the most prestigious honors in the University of North Carolina System.

Liesl K. Jeffers-Francis, Ph.D., an associate professor in the College of Science and Technology (CoST), has been named a 2025 Award for Excellence in Teaching winner by the UNC Board of Governors (BOG). She is among 17 faculty members representing all 16 of North Carolina’s public universities and the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics to receive the award. Jeffers-Francis will be honored at North Carolina A&T spring 2025 commencement ceremonies this May.

“I am deeply honored to receive this award and to represent A&T alongside my distinguished system colleagues,” said Jeffers-Francis. “Teaching stands at the very core of our mission as a public university system as we endeavor to prepare tomorrow’s leaders to take their place in a global society.”

Jeffers-Francis has been an integral part of A&T’s academic and research environment since arriving in 2016 as an assistant professor in the Department of Biology at CoST. In addition to serving as associate professor, she is graduate coordinator of the biology master’s program at A&T. She also holds an adjunct assistant professorship in the Division of Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences in the Adams School of Dentistry at UNC-Chapel Hill.

“In my more than 30 years as a professor, I have rarely observed the exceptional potential and dedication that Dr. Liesl Jeffers-Francis has demonstrated,” said Joseph L. Graves Jr., Ph.D., MacKenzie Scott Endowed Professor of Biology, in nominating her.  “She will undoubtedly continue her success as a researcher, teacher, mentor and contributor to the professional development of the discipline.”

Jeffers-Francis has conducted groundbreaking research on salivary gland disease and its association with the BK polyomavirus, particularly in HIV patients. Her research focuses on the role of trade-offs in the evolution of bacteriophage and metal resistance in E. coli, aiming to uncover how microorganisms adapt to environmental stressors, including antibiotics. This work has broad implications for molecular biology, ecology, and public health, offering critical insights into disease mechanisms and potential treatment strategies.

Her research has been supported by esteemed funding agencies such as the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. Her scholarly contributions have been recognized with accolades including the Community Engaged Research Award and a nomination for the Outstanding Young Investigator Award. She has shared her findings through publications in high-impact journals and presentations at national and international conferences.

As an educator, Jeffers-Francis is celebrated for her ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging. She teaches a range of courses from general microbiology to advanced graduate seminars, fostering an interactive and inclusive learning environment. Her commitment to clarity and active learning has earned her widespread praise from students, who commend her for being well-organized, prepared and responsive. One student noted: “Dr. Jeffers-Francis makes difficult material approachable and encourages questions, which has been invaluable to my understanding.”

Beyond the classroom, Jeffers-Francis is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists. She has supervised students at various academic levels, from Ph.D. candidates to STEM Early College students, ensuring each mentee receives the necessary guidance and support to thrive in their academic and professional pursuits. Her dedication to mentorship extends beyond formal advising, as she actively fosters an inclusive and supportive academic community.
“I am privileged to interact every day with talented, bright young people who aspire to improve the world around them,” said Jeffers-Francis. “Teaching is more than my job, it’s my purpose. I’m excited to see what the future holds.”

Jeffers-Francis’ leadership in research, teaching and mentorship continues to shape the field of microbiology while inspiring future generations of scientists. Through her dedication to discovery and education, she remains a vital force in advancing scientific knowledge and fostering a diverse and dynamic research community.

“Our A&T learner ecosystem is one of the best and most engaging systems anywhere,” said Tonya Smith-Jackson, Ph.D., provost and executive vice chancellor for Academic Affairs. “Dr. Jeffers-Francis integrates keen understanding of social cognition. She uses simulations, video content, structured and active learning, and even mentoring and support to create a context in which all students are empowered to engage authentically. Without a doubt, her approach to this important professor-learner relationship is innovative and impactful. Her dedication to student success is extraordinary, and we congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition.”

Jeffers-Francis holds B.S. in biology and M.S. in biomedical science degrees from Barry University and a Ph.D. in microbiology and immunology from UNC-Chapel Hill. She also served as a post-doctoral research associate in the Division of Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences at UNC’s dental school.

Excellence in Teaching Award recipients were nominated by special committees at each constituent campus of the UNC System and selected by the BOG’s Committee on Educational Planning, Policies and Programs. Each will receive a commemorative bronze medallion and a $12,500 cash prize.