Dr. Chelsea Miranda serves as Chair of the Department of Natural Sciences in Howard Payne University’s School of Science & Mathematics. She began teaching in 2014 and joined the HPU faculty in 2023. With a strong background in biology, entomology, wildlife sciences, sustainability, and research, Miranda brings both academic expertise and a deep commitment to helping students develop curiosity, confidence, and a greater appreciation for the natural world.
Miranda teaches a wide range of courses, including General Biology I and II, Zoology, Ecology, Microbiology, Medical Terminology, Introduction to Forensics, University Seminar, and Research & Thesis. For her, biology becomes most meaningful when students move beyond memorizing facts and begin to understand how living systems function. She especially enjoys the moments when a difficult concept finally makes sense to a student or when students begin asking deeper questions that demonstrate scientific thinking.
One of Miranda’s favorite aspects of working at HPU is the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with students. Because of the university’s smaller size, she is able to know students beyond the classroom, including their goals, challenges, and personal stories. She sees her role as extending beyond that of a biology professor. She strives to be a mentor, a listener, and a steady source of encouragement for students as they develop academically and personally.
Her passion for biology is also closely connected to her Christian faith. Miranda believes the study of science provides opportunities to recognize the complexity, order, and creativity present in God’s creation. Rather than viewing faith and science as opposing ideas, she sees them as complementary ways of understanding the world. Teaching science at a Christian university allows her to help students appreciate creation not only as something to study, but also as evidence of a Creator who cares deeply for His creation and His people.
Miranda earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Ph.D. in Entomology from Texas A&M University. She also holds a Master of Science in Wildlife, Sustainability, and Ecosystem Sciences from Tarleton State University. Her research interests focus on sustainable agriculture through insect bioconversion, particularly the use of insects to transform waste materials into valuable resources. She has authored and co-authored multiple peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters and continues to pursue writing and research as important parts of her academic work.
Outside of the classroom, Miranda enjoys traveling, discovering new places, trying new foods, and thrift shopping. Her interest in reusing and recycling also reflects her commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Most importantly, she values spending time with her family, whom she considers her greatest source of joy. She is also involved with Midtown.
Miranda’s office is located in Winebrenner 203. Through her teaching, mentorship, research, faith, and leadership, she seeks to help students grow as scientists while encouraging them to recognize the beauty, purpose, and responsibility found in studying and caring for God’s creation.
