Teaching
It is my belief that teaching and mentorship are reciprocal relationships, with knowledge co-created by students and instructors. Fundamentally, I believe in an approach to education that recognizes the role of the instructor as a fellow learner in the classroom and fosters a space for collaborative dialogue. I strive to ensure that students are invested, engaged, and excited to learn, linking material to real-world examples and hands-on experiences. I also endeavour to accommodate different needs and give students multiple opportunities to prove themselves across several formats.
Courses Taught
ENVS2310: Introduction to Biogeochemistry
Designed and taught the course for 55 students. Received extremely positive feedback from students (see below).
Recent Teaching Assistant Experiences
I have 8 years of TA experience across 3 universities and 12 courses. Below are the most recent. Please see my CV for additional information.
ENVS2310: Introduction to Biogeochemistry
Delivered guest lectures for one week per term.
ENVS2060: Soil Science
Prepared and led laboratories multiple times a week.
Student Feedback
In my teaching, I have received overwhelmingly positive feedback. I make a practice of soliciting feedback and advise from students throughout the course, so I can adapt to student needs as they arise. I build my courses to encourage active dialogue. Most students (>90%) have rated me as enthusiastic, approachable, and invested in student learning. Below are some quotes from students I have taught:
"I have never had an instructor as devoted to student success, wellbeing and understanding as Kimber. They do everything in their capacity to create an environment which is engaging, comfortable and enjoyable. She presents confidently, with great wit and creativity which makes every lecture exciting, and engages with students to solidify their understanding and interest. Kimber is extremely accommodating and goes above and beyond to priotize student wellbeing in how she structures assignments, exams and in class seminars. I'm so grateful to have them as my instructor – were they not, I'm not sure if I'd have connected with this course nearly as much."
"Kimber was really kind and compassionate, and clearly enjoys the subject. She’s kept the course engaging through fun assignments and activities and help us display our understanding of the course without making the work unnecessarily difficult. She has made everyone in the class feel welcome and accommodated."
"This course, due to the above–and–beyond leadership of Kimber, has been one which will certainly impact my career and academic future. Biogeochemistry was applied to relevant scenarios which always piqued student interest and solidified fundamental scientific concepts. Students leave this course being stronger scientists with the drive and capacity to contribute to the betterment of society and the environment. Kimber ensures we have strong chemical knowledge, understand cycles and relationships, and connect to issues at large."
"Kimber Munford is an amazing professor, I can tell that she cares deeply about this class and her students, always putting our needs before her own. She is very approachable, helpful and passionate about what she teaches. She has been the best professor I have had through my time here at UofG and I would be lucky to have her as a professor in the future."
Mentoring
My mentorship philosophy is rooted in fostering scientific curiosity while advancing equity and accessibility. I believe that students perform their best when their unique interests and perspectives are valued, and I work hard to create an inclusive environment in my work in and out of the lab. I've had the pleasure of mentoring many successful students over my career, many of whom have done work that led to primary or co-authorship on scientific publications. If you're an undergraduate interested in gaining research experience, feel free to reach out.