Home >> News >> Articles >> New Faculty Spotlight

New Faculty Spotlight

Meet Assistant Professor Dr. Madhura Maiya

Maiya Dr. Madhura Maiya joined the university as an assistant professor of nutrition, effective Sept. 1. Maiya comes to UT Tyler from Texas Woman’s University-Houston, where she has been working as an assistant director of research in the research and sponsored programs office.

Maiya taught nutrition courses as an adjunct faculty in the TWU-Houston’s Department of Nutrition. In her directorship role at TWU-Houston, she also taught courses such as research methods, grant writing and research ethics.

Her research interest focuses on identifying the efficacy of fiber, resistant starch, functional ingredients and bioactive compounds or nutrients in foods that can be considered as a preventive — or even an alternative approach — to reduce obesity and its associated metabolic complications, specifically diabetes. As a TWU researcher, she co-authored three articles, which were published in peer-reviewed, high-impact journals. She also was instrumental in helping faculty receive two National Institutes of Health grants.

In the following question and answer session, learn more about Maiya, what led her to academia, and why she is excited about her new role at UT Tyler.

How did you end up in academia? Did you always want to become professor?

My passion toward teaching is what propelled me to academia. I would also say, my family on my paternal side had a huge influence in me choosing academia. Growing up, I had two distinct goals — to be a scientist and to teach. Luckily for me, both goals fit the definition of a professor. I pursued the goals and aligned my educational path all to be able to teach one day.

Why do you enjoy teaching?

I have always had a passion for teaching and engaging with students. Throughout my career, I have been very fortunate to teach and counsel in various capacities, be it as a dietician, nutrition faculty, research director and a researcher. In all these roles, every interaction has not only given me the opportunity to impart my knowledge, but also learn from my patients, research participants, and most importantly, students. I have always believed that knowledge sharing would not only support professional development but also aid in making informed choices and decisions.

I particularly look forward to teaching students who are new to the field of nutrition. I believe my role as a teacher and an adviser will aim to evoke curiosity and question assumptions, to inculcate the right research taste, and to bootstrap a lifelong process of learning.

What do you find exciting about this new role at UT Tyler?

My assignment as a faculty member at UT Tyler will be in the areas of teaching and service. I look forward to teaching existing nutrition courses and assisting in developing new coursework that would expand the scope and understanding of nutrition concepts to UT Tyler students. In addition, I will be looking forward to developing and conducting research, publishing papers in academic journals.

I am also very excited to work with students in bringing the field of nutrition to focus as they continue their education in the health sciences and possibly make it their career choice. Also, I am looking forward to expanding my research niche in the area of fiber/resistant starch and other functional foods.

What advice do you give to those students who are interested in doing something similar, career-path wise?

Nutrition is a very vast and fast-growing field. It not only interacts with basic human physiology, but it also has a huge presence in health and wellness, psychology, cultural traditions, community development and global economics. There is always room for more educators and researchers. One piece of advice I would strongly recommend is to prepare oneself for a strong commitment toward research. Research, especially in the field of health sciences, drives teaching. It is vital that we conduct good research and be able to translate that in a classroom.

What are your hobbies/interests?

I love to paint and sketch. During my spare time, I like to read and spend time gardening. I also like to hike and trek, so when the opportunity presents itself, I would not say no to exploring new destinations.

Any family info you'd like to share?

I have a daughter who will be a freshman in high school this year, and I have a husband of 18 years who works for an oil and gas company.

#CNHS