In this episode, Dr. Stanton Belford shares his unique journey from growing up on a Caribbean island to becoming a marine biologist in the United States. He discusses the importance of experiential learning, mentorship, and the role of confidence in engaging with marine environments. Dr. Belford emphasizes the significance of representation in marine science and the need for effective science communication to inspire future generations. His research focuses on coral reefs and the diverse marine life they support, highlighting the interconnectedness of education, research, and community engagement. In this conversation, Stanton Belford shares his journey in marine biology, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, mentorship, and hands-on experiences in fostering a love for the ocean. He discusses the diverse paths that lead individuals to marine biology, the role of parents in shaping interests, and the significance of coral reefs and sea urchins in marine ecosystems. The conversation highlights the need for experiential learning and the impact of research on understanding and preserving marine life. In this conversation, Stanton Belford discusses the culinary delights of the ocean, the economic impact of marine tourism, and the ecological importance of sea urchins and oysters. He emphasizes the role of environmental DNA in marine research and the significance of sustainable practices in preserving marine ecosystems. The dialogue also touches on the connection between past and present in marine science, highlighting the importance of hands-on experiences and sharing knowledge across cultures.

About Dr. Stanton G. Belford, PhD:

Dr. Stanton G. Belford is an Associate Professor of Biology and Department Head of the School of Mathematics and Sciences at the University of Tennessee Southern. He is in his 13th year at UT Southern, where he teaches lower and upper-level biology courses, such as Ecology, Invertebrate Zoology, Vertebrate Zoology, and General Ichthyology. His research uses DNA barcoding techniques to assist with species identification on coral reefs located in the Caribbean. He also conducts similar research on crayfish species located in Tennessee. He graduated from Auburn University with a PhD. in Secondary Science Education and holds a Master’s degree in Biology from Middle Tennessee State University.

Dr. Belford continues to lead undergraduate research by taking students to conduct benthic surveys and molecular analyses that provide valuable knowledge of species biodiversity in the southern Caribbean region. Dr. Belford serves on the board of director for BIMS and is the chair of CADASE.

Website: stantonbelford.com

Instagram: stan_b_phd

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-stanton-g-belford-98083044

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

⁠⁠⁠https://drcatherinequinlan.com⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠https://keystonepassage.com⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠https://visibilityinstem.com/⁠⁠⁠

TEDx Talk: The ClarityWe Need For Belonging: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be⁠⁠⁠

Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development. ⁠⁠⁠https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193⁠⁠⁠

Check out the podcast: Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠⁠⁠

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-representation-in-the-curriculum-conversations/id1785560564

Music: ⁠⁠⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love⁠⁠⁠

iHeart Radio: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-black-representation-in-th-248725998/