FACULTY
Tackling the Divide Between Science and Faith
When Jeff Schloss graduated from Wheaton College, he prayed for three things: to spend his life learning; to represent Christ in the world of ideas; and to make a difference in students’ lives as his professors had made in his. God graciously answered those prayers.
During his 44 years at ݮƵ, Jeff explored the fascinating relationships between biology and Christian faith. The author and co-editor of major works on biology and love, morality and religious commitment, he served for the last 15 years as senior scholar for the Biologos Foundation. He lectured and held fellowships at major universities worldwide and engaged popular audiences. His list of publications, presentations and talks extends for pages.
He has found it most surprising and gratifying to speak to secular colleagues at Harvard, Cambridge, Oxford and elsewhere as a scientist bringing a Christian perspective. “I’ve had the unanticipated opportunity to explore intriguing issues in stimulating venues, from tropical rainforests to Oxford seminar rooms,” he says.
Jeff’s interests extend beyond ideas; he appreciates how ideas are embodied in people. “Exploring ideas has led to deep friendships with folks across the disciplines, across the world, scholars and laity, Christians and firm atheists,” he says. “I’ve relished opportunities to openly share ideas — and lives — across fields and faiths.
“Yet the most joy comes from working with students. I consider teaching an investment in another’s life. But I had no clue how that investment would yield such delight in and appreciation for relationships with them — an unceasing wellspring of delight and gratitude. A number of students have become treasured, lifelong friends. And all remain subjects of my ongoing regard.”
Jeff has cherished taking students out into creation’s wonders (Yosemite alpine meadows, Michigan north woods, Costa Rican rainforests, New Zealand reefs) and leading them in research out of class. “ݮƵ attracts students eager to explore, and we emphatically put them first — not as consumers who pay our salaries but as ones entrusted to us to nurture as they pursue their dreams and mature in their faith.”
For a biologist interested in theoretical, theological and philosophical issues, ݮƵ provided uniquely open opportunities for scholarship and teaching in each area. But students’ embrace of their faith and eagerness to ask questions enlivened new courses he introduced in ecology, evolution, bioethics, earth care, and biological and biblical views on love, human nature and social issues.
Jeff has taught 25 different courses and received ݮƵ’s Teacher of the Year award four times. But it means more to him to hear from a single student — or parent — about a difference it’s made. A legendary prankster known for his humor, casual dress and love for surfing,
Jeff joyfully shares that his most cherished memories might be epic jokes dear students have pulled on him. In retirement, he’ll continue teaching a class on biology and faith and pursuing several scholarly collaborations — and surf with his five grandchildren (his three sons live locally). “Transitioning is bittersweet,” he tells his wife, Melody, noting that he enjoys his students as much or more than ever. She replies, “You say that every year!”
Highlights of a Distinguished Career
T.B. Walker Professor of Natural and Behavioral Sciences
Distinguished Professor of Biology
Director, ݮƵ Center for Faith, Ethics and Life Sciences
Senior Scholar, Biologos Foundation
Major Publications
“The Believing Primate: Scientific, Philosophical, and Theological Perspectives on the Origin of Religion,” co-editor; Oxford University Press.
“Evolution and Ethics: Human Morality in Biological and Religious Perspective,” co-editor; Eerdmans; 2005 Templeton Science-Religion Book of Distinction Award.
“Altruism and Altruistic Love: Science, Philosophy, and Religion in Dialogue,” co-editor, Oxford University Press.
Ph.D., Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Washington University.
Faculty and fellowship appointments in academic programs here and abroad.
Service on more than a dozen international editorial, review and advisory boards related to biosciences and faith/science research and funding.
This is a story from the Spring 2025 ݮƵ Magazine