Originally from Winthrop, Arkansas, Grace James earned her bachelor's in biology from Texas A&M University-Texarkana, while working in a pharmacy to support her schooling. Afterward, she made the move to East Texas A&M University, to obtain her master’s degree and conduct research in the Reyna Laboratory for Upland Gamebirds.

Grace's primary research investigated the impacts of pharmaceuticals and environmental stressors on gamebird reproduction, development, and population sustainability. This made her a natural fit for the Reyna Lab’s research on QuailGuard^®, a medicated feed that hit the market in 2024. It became her master's project.

“Dr. Reyna wanted to look into how QuailGuard^® impacts Northern Bobwhite quail,” Grace recalls. “In my research, I discovered that reproductive harm was not evaluated in the FDA approval process. We couldn't believe it, and that's what got the ball rolling.”

The findings raised significant concern.

“Our research produced data that indicate several potential reproductive harms,” Grace said.

As a result, Grace's team of undergraduate researchers conducted additional studies to validate these findings prior to submission for peer review and publication. The publications should come out in early 2026.

Grace's academic preparation and years of experience working at a pharmacy along with her experience in the Reyna Lab perfectly positioned her to become the Lyon Center’s first full-time laboratory manager after graduating with her master's in 2025. She oversees daily research operations, mentors undergraduate lab technicians, and contributes to the Lyon Center's research on the Northern Bobwhite quail and other gamebirds.

“One of my favorite aspects about working in the Reyna Lab and being in this leadership role has been the mentorship role that I've taken on,” Grace said. “I love working with students, and I'm really excited about the projects that our students are pursuing.”

Grace says Dr. Reyna has been a big part of her growth as a scientist and researcher.

“There have been so many opportunities in the Reyna Lab,” she said. “I've always appreciated Dr. Reyna's guidance through the various roles I've held here. Learning how to conduct research was a challenge coming from a background with no research experience but having the support of someone who has done all of it before has been really helpful.”

“I have learned so much about myself at the Lyon Center and East Texas A&M,” Grace added. “I'm very introverted, so I wasn't sure if teaching or leadership roles in research would be for me. It has been very fulfilling to have the opportunity to discover my passion for leadership and mentorship while contributing meaningful work to animal health and conservation.”

Her advice for students chasing a career in wildlife science?

“Just get started and keep going,” she said. “Take every opportunity that you can. Move ahead with purpose; each step forward is progress worth celebrating.”