Date: July 20th 2019
Title: Seafood Eat Food
Description:
Come out and learn about how delicious and nutritious seafood is produced and kept safe for you and your family. Discover seafood science, test your seafood knowledge, and challenge yourself to build your own fish farm.
Photo Credit: New York Sea Grant
- Questionnaire:
Where did you go to school?
Rider University – Marine Science and Biology
University of Prince Edward Island – Aquatic Health Sciences
Mississippi State University – Food Science (and Aquaculture)
What is your area of research?
Seafood Safety, Quality, Nutrition, and Sustainability
Who or what inspired you to become involved in marine science?
Love of Science and the sea and early introductions to the field of marine science through High School Marine Science Summer program in CA. My love of cooking and marine science lead me to pursue a doctorate in food science with a focus on seafood.
What qualities do you think are important in order to become a scientist?
A successful and effective scientist should be curious and inquisitive; creative and adaptive; and humble and practical.
Why is your research topic important?
I work in extension and am not directly involved in research but more guiding the research carried out and extending the results to communities that benefit from that information. My focus is primarily on maintaining the safety, quality, and sustainability of seafood and seafood products.
What will you be bringing with you to the “meet with an Oceanographer” day?
A variety of seafood science and aquaculture activities to introduce you to the potential that exists in a future in seafood. We will explore some of the popular species that are caught, grown, and/or sold in NY and test your seafood knowledge. For those looking to get more engaged we will challenge you to build your own fish farm through our “Becoming and Aquaculturist” activity.
What is the best advice you have for people interested in becoming involved in your field of research or in marine sciences?
The best advice I can give is explore the variety of possibilities that exist in fisheries, aquaculture, and seafood and get as much experience as you can as soon as you can to help you make informed decisions and demonstrate your dedication to potential employers. The experience gained through volunteering, internships, and entry level jobs cannot be replicated through education and can truly set you apart from your fellow graduates.
What is your favorite ocean organism?
Leafy Sea Dragon and Nudibranchs in general
Want to know more about Mike?
https://seagrant.sunysb.edu/articles/t/nysg-staff-profiles-michael-ciaramella