Dr. Michael Moore’s path to becoming a fish biologist began in Columbia, Missouri, where a family of educators helped shape his outlook from an early age. “Most of the people in my family are teachers, including both of my parents,” he shared. “They really instilled an appreciation for public education and the importance of being a life-long learner.”
Growing up, his curiosity was fueled by time outdoors. “My dad took my sister and me fishing, and my mom rented nature documentaries for me,” he said. “That established my early fascination with the biological diversity above and below the water surface.”
A graduate of Hickman High School he once considered a different career path. “I had a strong interest in writing and thought about journalism,” he explained. “But classes and Future Farmers of America (FFA) teams showed me that I could turn my interest in conservation and ecology into a career.”
Moore earned a bachelor’s degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences from the University of Missouri, a master’s degree from Virginia Tech and a Ph.D. in Natural Resources from the University of Missouri.
Before beginning at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) in August 2025 as an Assistant Professor of Fish Biology in the Department of Biological Sciences, he served as Assistant Unit Leader for the U.S. Geological Survey Iowa Cooperative Research Unit at Iowa State University.
His research there focused on fish conservation and ecology, primarily working with graduate students. At EKU, he found an opportunity to expand both his teaching and research. “Moving to EKU provided me with an excellent opportunity to forge my own path,” he said. “It allows me to work more closely with undergraduate students and conduct research in beautiful streams and rivers.”
He was also drawn to the region’s ecological importance. “Kentucky is a global aquatic biodiversity hotspot,” he noted. “There’s an incredible array of species here and a real need to help conserve them for future generations.”
At EKU, he quickly developed a strong connection with his students. “The students are wonderful,” he said. “The relationships I build with them in the classroom and through student organizations means a lot to me. They’re genuinely excited about hands-on learning, which makes field-based labs a blast.”
These field experiences often lead to memorable teaching moments. “I love seeing students light up when they discover a colorful fish they never knew existed, let alone so close to home,” he said.
His research focuses on helping conservation managers make better decisions for protecting aquatic species and habitats, particularly in rivers and streams. Over the course of his career, he has studied a wide range of species, from small dace to large salmon and sturgeon.
“When people ask me to choose a favorite fish, I’m always at a loss,” he said. “Each is unique and captivating in its own way.” When asked what is most rewarding about his work, Moore said, “Seeing students succeed is the most satisfying part. Especially when they overcome challenges like scientific writing or data analysis and grow in confidence.”
Outside of work, his life centers on family. His wife, Christina, works at EKU as a coordinator in the Office of First Year Courses and together they have a two-year-old son, Emerson. “I love spending time with my family outside exploring Kentucky,” he said. When he has free time, he enjoys fishing, gardening, and running, activities that reflect the same passion for the outdoors that first inspired his career. Although still new to EKU and Kentucky, he has embraced both the campus and the region. “I’ve really enjoyed seeing Kentucky change through the seasons,” he said. “But I definitely prefer the warmer weather of the summer.” Moore has already made an impact on both his students and the EKU campus with his enthusiasm for teaching, commitment to research and dedication to conservation.