For Madison Dorsey, a junior marine science major from Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, passion for the ocean and its incredible creatures has been the driving force behind her academic journey at Samford. That same passion has translated into a unique research opportunity at the McWane Science Center in downtown Birmingham, where she is contributing to groundbreaking studies on blacknose sharks.
Under the guidance of Jun Ebersole, a paleontologist and head of the collections department at McWane, Dorsey is working to create a standardized dentition—or tooth structure—for blacknose sharks, a Gulf Coast species with little prior research. Her role includes defleshing the jaws of specimens, a meticulous process that prepares them for detailed data analysis. The goal of the project is to identify patterns in the sharks' teeth, such as ontogenetic heterodonty (variation based on maturity stages), sexual dimorphism (differences between males and females) and gynandric heterodonty (seasonal changes in males' teeth during mating).
“This project is an absolute dream come true,” Dorsey said. “I love the lab work, sitting and defleshing jaws for hours on end, but I also love the analysis that goes on behind the hands-on work. Knowing that my name will be on a published research paper alongside some of the top researchers in the field is incredibly exciting.”
Dorsey’s introduction to this opportunity came through Samford’s STEM Scholars program and the support of Malia Fincher, associate professor of biological and environmental sciences. During a STEM Scholars session, Dorsey shared her postgraduation plans of earning a doctoral degree in marine sciences with a focus on shark biology and conservation. Recognizing her passion and potential, Fincher connected her with Ebersole.
“Being a STEM Scholar at Samford has been an absolute blessing,” Dorsey said. “It has led to so many amazing opportunities that are accelerating my future in the research field I love so dearly. The networking I’ve experienced and the guidance I’ve received have been invaluable.”
Dorsey credits the biology department at Samford for fostering her success. Professors including Fincher, Drew Hataway, Brad Bennett and Gregory Kawell have provided constant support and encouragement.
“The faculty here truly care about students and want them to succeed in their field,” Dorsey said. “Their mentorship has been vital to my growth as a researcher.”
Looking to the future, Dorsey hopes her story inspires others to pursue their passions and contribute to marine sciences.
“With determination and discipline, the rest will fall into place,” Dorsey said. “The ocean and its amazing creatures need our help, and I hope others will join me in making a difference.”
To help support students like Madison as they pursue transformative research opportunities and prepare for impactful careers, consider making a gift to Samford’s Howard College of Arts and Sciences.
