Education

2005 Texas A&M University, B.S. in Biology
2013 Texas A&M University, Ph.D. in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences

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Courses Taught

Genetics
Genetics Laboratory
General Biology II Laboratory
Conservation Genetics

Career Specialties

Carlos Santamaria is a broadly trained biologist with a multidisciplinary skillset; however, the main areas of interest are that of evolutionary and ecological.

Professional and Community Activities

Santamaria’s primary research interests are on cryptic biodiversity and phylogeography of coastal invertebrates, particularly those from highly biodiverse and geologically active regions. To date, his research has taken him to places such as Hawai’i, Palau, Micronesia, the Caribbean Islands, the Mediterranean and the Baja Peninsula. This work has led to some 20 peer-reviewed publications to date. His current projects include work in the Tampa Bay area with local collaborators from institutions such as Mote Marine Laboratory and USF-St. Petersburg.

As a Hispanic, he is aware of the difficulties that under-represented students face in higher education and when pursuing careers in the biological sciences. Thus, he is dedicated to increasing their participation in the sciences. He has mentored undergraduates who self-identify as members of underrepresented groups in his research activities. He also participates in community outreach events as well as professional development programs geared towards developing a better understanding of the needs of a multi-cultural student body and to improve the participation of under-represented groups in the sciences.

Honors and Awards

2018 USF-SM Excellence in Research Award