July 24, 2025
Dr. DeVant’e Dawson
Postdoctoral Researcher
Resistant Reefs, Resilient Communities: Science for Collective Survival
Dr. DeVant’e Dawson is a postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University’s Hopkins Marine Station. His scientific work explores the thermal thresholds of corals and their symbiotic algae, identifying which pairings are best equipped to withstand the rising temperatures of a warming ocean.
In his Ocean Hoptimism talk, he shared how this research is helping identify climate-resilient reefs while also underscoring the importance of justice and equity in science. Dr. Dawson is at the forefront of efforts to expand pathways for Black representation in ocean STEM fields, reminding us that the health of the ocean and the diversity of voices protecting it are inseparably linked.
True hope in ocean conservation comes from empowering communities to lead, honoring local knowledge, and opening doors for those historically left out of ocean science. Justice and resilience go hand in hand when we build pathways where belonging and impact are possible for all.
—Dr. DeVant’e Dawson
