Columbia International University has appointed Dr. Nathaniel Jeanson as its inaugural Visiting Research Professor, marking a major milestone for the College of Arts and Sciences and CIU’s growing investment in science and healthcare education. A Harvard-trained molecular biologist and bestselling author, Dr. Jeanson uses DNA research to explore questions surrounding human origins, ancient migration, and the natural history of the earth through the lens of Scripture.
For students interested in biology, healthcare, nursing, medicine, or scientific research, Dr. Jeanson’s arrival signals something bigger happening at CIU. The university is expanding opportunities in science and healthcare education while preparing students to serve with both professional excellence and a biblical worldview.
“Dr. Jeanson’s work gives our students an opportunity to see how rigorous scientific research can be carried out within a Biblical framework. His example strengthens our commitment to teaching science in a way that is both academically credible and firmly grounded in Scripture.” said Dr. David DeWitt, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.
From a Medical Household to Harvard
Dr. Jeanson grew up in a science-centered home. His father was a dentist, and his mother worked as a nurse before he was born. Those early experiences sparked a lifelong fascination with science and medicine.
“Science was a regular part of my childhood,” Dr. Jeanson said. “Cancer research caught my attention somewhere in my high school and college undergraduate days.”
That interest eventually led him to Harvard University. There, he earned a PhD in Cell and Developmental Biology through a program connected to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. He researched adult blood stem cell function during a pivotal era of rapid advances in stem cell and cancer research.
For CIU students exploring careers in nursing, health and science or laboratory research, Dr. Jeanson’s story demonstrates how scientific curiosity and Christian faith can work together rather than compete against one another.
What Can Students Learn from a Working Research Scientist?
Dr. Jeanson’s research tackles some of the biggest questions in science and human history. Using DNA analysis, he studies the origins of species, patterns of human migration, and historical events recorded in ancient history.
“If we take a 30,000-foot view of my research, I’m trying to understand the origin and diversity of life,” Dr. Jeanson explained. “Genetics just happens to be one of the best tools to find answers.”
He describes DNA as “a detective’s magnifying glass” that helps uncover clues about the history of life on earth. One of his earliest discoveries involved understanding how species such as zebras formed. More recently, his work has focused on reconstructing the human family tree through DNA analysis.
“My next big discovery was finding Noah, the genealogy in Genesis 10, in the global human family tree,” Dr. Jeanson said. “Practically, this means that any male on earth, from any tribe, can take a DNA test and figure out from which son of Noah he descends.”
That research became the foundation for his bestselling book, Traced: Human DNA’s Big Surprise.
For students in CIU’s College of Arts & Sciences, working alongside an active researcher brings learning to life beyond the textbooks.
Why Hands-On Science Education Matters
Dr. Jeanson believes students learn science best by actively participating in research and problem-solving. “It took me a long time to understand how science actually works,” he said. “There’s no substitute for being in a lab.”
He recalls nearly failing his Harvard qualifying exam before developing the research skills that shaped his career. “Some of my most important lessons were learned the hard way in graduate school,” he said. That perspective aligns with CIU’s growing emphasis on experiential learning in science and healthcare education.
The university is currently building a new 38,000-square-foot Health & Science Center that will significantly expand opportunities for students preparing for careers in nursing, healthcare, exercise science, biology, and other high-demand medical fields. The Health and Science Center will feature advanced learning spaces, hands-on labs, and modern equipment designed to prepare future healthcare leaders for real-world service. The facility will support CIU’s nationally recognized nursing program while creating opportunities for expanded degrees in growing science and healthcare professions.
More importantly, the center reflects CIU’s mission to prepare graduates who combine professional skill with Christ-centered compassion. From future nurses to researchers and medical professionals, students will be equipped to bring healing, hope, and the love of Christ into communities around the world.
How Faith & Science Work Together at CIU
Many students interested in science wrestle with questions about faith and scientific discovery. Dr. Jeanson believes Scripture is not a barrier to research but a foundation for meaningful discovery.
“It’s not just that the Bible is compatible with science,” he said. “I would insist, based on the research discoveries that I’ve made, that the Bible is a necessary prerequisite for making big discoveries about the past.”
That conviction closely aligns with CIU’s mission of preparing students academically and spiritually.
“Because we believe the world is created, we teach our students to study it with rigor and reverence,” Dr. DeWitt said. “The Biblical worldview doesn’t narrow scientific inquiry, it provides an intellectual framework that makes discovery possible.”
Students across CIU’s programs are encouraged to pursue truth boldly while developing a strong biblical worldview.
Preparing the Next Generation of Healthcare & Science Leaders
Dr. Jeanson encourages students entering science and healthcare fields to stay grounded in Scripture while remaining curious and courageous in their studies.
“For students in every field, even outside of science, it’s critical to be thoroughly grounded in a biblical worldview,” he said. “For those considering research, I’d say: It’s a wonderfully thrilling rollercoaster ride!”
As CIU expands its science and healthcare programs, students have more pathways than ever. Career options include nursing, biology, biomedical sciences, exercise science and kinesiology, health sciences, healthcare administration and other service-driven professions.
At CIU, hands-on learning, faculty mentorship, and Christ-centered education work together. Students graduate with both professional competence and spiritual conviction.
Students interested in healthcare, biology, nursing, or scientific research are encouraged to explore CIU’s expanding academic offerings and experience firsthand how faith and science can work together to serve others. To learn more, schedule a campus visit or apply today. Students who visit campus qualify for CIU’s $500 Visit Scholarship!
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