April 18, 2026 — Mr. Mayo and the Milford Method Madness!
Description:
You will laugh, you won’t cry, but you will love to learn about the groundbreaking science at the
NOAA Milford lab! Our research has attracted thousands to our annual open houses and on
April 18th Isaiah, Mr. Mayo, is presenting about Milford’s state of the art research to Long Island
Aquarium!
Photo Credit: NOAA Fisheries/Meghana Parikh. Isaiah Mayo measures oysters for size class frequency to monitor natural and restored oyster reefs.
Where did you go to school?
I went to the University of Connecticut
What is your area of research?
Shellfish Aquaculture
Who or what inspired you to become involved in marine science?
Honestly it was my parents pushing me to figure out what career field I should pursue when I
was in high school. I reflected on what subjects I genuinely liked to learn about and I was
always catching myself watching the Discovery Channel and National Geographic
documentaries about the ocean. It was the combination of them asking for an answer as well as
the ambiguity and the beauty of life in the big blue ocean that motivated me to pursue a career
in marine science.
What qualities do you think are important in order to become a scientist?
Having an open mind and learning by asking questions are two similar qualities that will push
you very far as a scientist. Being open minded does not limit what you can do or your potential.
Asking questions is what leads scientists to learn new things as they seek for answers through
experiments. Along with open mindedness, collaboration is also very important to scientists, it is
a way for them to help themselves and others achieve goals and get results realistically.
Why is your research topic important? Our research informs the management and expansion of sustainable aquaculture. The shellfish
industry is worth tens of millions of dollars and provides 300 jobs solely in Connecticut alone. In
this we seek to better understand the interactions between aquaculture practices and the
environment for a sustainable future.
What will you be bringing with you to the “meet with an Oceanographer” day? The wealth of the history of the NOAA Milford lab, appreciation of shellfish to share with the
audience as well as a few shells (at least 100) oyster/scallop/mussel shells for the audience to
keep.
What is the best advice you have for people interested in becoming involved in your field
of research or in marine sciences?
Never give up. I have heard this so many times from scientists who I think are very successful
and I believe it is true within my own life. This field can be challenging however those who learn
from their challenges are able to have a rewarding career in this field.
What is your favorite ocean organism?
Mimic octopus because they survive in the ocean by outsmarting fish with disguises.
Wanna know more about Isaiah? click the link!