Faculty Feature

Dr. Ryan Somers

Assistant Professor, Department of Biology and Chemistry

1. Can you tell us your home department and how long have you been a faculty member at APU?

I currently work for the Department of Biology and Chemistry. I have been a full-time faculty member since Spring 2018. Prior to being full-time, I worked as an adjunct professor beginning in Fall 2005.


2. What are the classes you teach?

I currently teach BIOL 200 - Human Anatomy for Nursing; BIOL 250 - Human Anatomy; BIOL 250L - Human Physiology Lab; BIOL 346L- Regional Anatomy Lab; BIOL 465- Topics and Practicum in Allied Health. I also help with teaching anatomy in the DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy) program at APU.


3. What is your area of research/teaching and how did you get interested in this area?

My emphasis in teaching is Human Anatomy. I have always been fascinated by God's ultimate creation and my background as a physical therpaist has allowed me to gain a functional understanding of how our bodies work.


4. When and how did you get interested in studying science?

Ever since I was in high school I knew I wanted to do something in the medical field. During high school, both of my parents needed intensive physical therapy for either their knees or feet. I went with them on a few occasions and I got to shadow the PT (Physical Therapist) who was working with them. That PT opened up this whole new world to me and I was hooked ever since.


5. What are some of the things you enjoy the most being in APU?

I love APU. That is why I have never left after I graduated here. My absolute favorite thing about APU is working with and getting to know my students. Students are not numbers here at APU. That was true when I was a student and I feel honored to continue with this amazing practice.


6. What are some fun things that you like to do?

When not hanging out with my wife and four kids, I love going to the movies, working out on my Peloton bike/treadmill, and playing boardgames. The current game I am playing with my wife and friends is called Gloomhaven.


7. Anything else you would like the STEM community to know about you?

The STEM community at APU has been such a big part of my life for so long. There are so many of you who have shaped me into who I am today. It is an honor to be a part of this community.

Visit Dr. Somers virtually now to get to know him and stop by his office in Segerstrom 201 when our campus opens!