Lecture Notes: Dr. Shane Campbell-Staton Interview
Introduction to Dr. Shane Campbell-Staton
Dr. Shane Campbell-Staton, a scientist known for his work in evolutionary biology and adaptation to extreme environments.
Discussed his unique journey to becoming a scientist.
Journey to Becoming a Scientist
Raised in South Carolina; initial exposure to nature through television (Wild Kingdom, Steve Irwin, etc.).
Moved to upstate New York, attended a small school, and developed an interest in biology in late high school.
Entered University of Rochester as a biology major but struggled initially due to lack of foundational science education.
Self-studied over the summer to catch up and eventually succeeded in college, leading to graduate studies at Harvard.
Choosing Anoles and Developing Scientific Questions
Initially uninterested in anoles but influenced by advisors at Harvard who were experts in anoles and genomics.
Originally interested in studying house geckos for their human-mediated dispersal but lacked genomic data.
Shifted focus to anoles due to availability of genomic data.
Emphasizes the importance of reading literature to find gaps and develop scientific questions.
Dissertation and Polar Vortex Study
Focused on the evolution of cold tolerance in anoles, particularly the green anole, which originated from Cuba but migrated to colder regions.
Dissertation led to a serendipitous study on the impact of a polar vortex on anoles.
Highlights the non-linear nature of scientific discovery and the integration of unexpected events into research.
Current and Future Research Interests
Continues to explore adaptation to extreme environments.
Interested in complex traits influenced by multiple genes and environmental factors.
Examines the repeatability of evolution and how species might respond to rapid climate change.
Research includes studying urban heat islands and rapid selection in response to heat waves.
Relevance to Climate Change
Investigates how species' genomic adaptations play a role in responding to rapid environmental changes.
Ongoing projects on urban heat islands and fruit bat adaptations to heat waves.
Questions addressing trade-offs in adaptation to different climate stressors.
Life as a Research Biologist
Yearly cycle involves field research, lab experimentation, and data analysis.
Field research is physically demanding, involving long days collecting data in natural habitats.
Lab work centers on experimental design and physiological data collection.
Data analysis requires substantial time and effort in computational work.
Advice for Undergraduates
Importance of learning to code as it is foundational in modern biology.
Encourages getting into labs to gain hands-on research experience.
Evolutionary biology is fundamental for understanding various biological and medical questions.
Being a Scientist of Color
Acknowledges challenges faced by scientists of color within the scientific community.
Highlights the importance of resilience and the value of diversity in science.
Encourages students of color to pursue their interests and contribute to the field regardless of biases.
Conclusion
Dr. Campbell-Staton offers to be a resource for students interested in graduate studies or in pursuing questions related to evolutionary biology and climate change.