Shawn T. Dash

Dr. Shawn T. Dash serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Hampton University, actively contributing to the HHMI Science Education Alliance-Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science (SEA-PHAGES) program. His work bridges classroom instruction with hands-on research initiatives focused on microbial diversity and regional ecosystems.

His research centers on documenting biodiversity across multiple taxa, with recent emphasis on microorganisms including viruses and bacteria within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. This ecological focus extends to teaching specialties in medical entomology, toxicology of venomous animals, and conservation biology, reflecting an integrated approach to organismal biology and environmental science.

Dr. Dash actively involves students in research through the SEA-PHAGES program, providing experiential learning in phage discovery and genomics. His participation in upcoming program events—including the 2025 Phage Genomics Workshop and 2026 SEA Symposium—demonstrates ongoing engagement with national collaborative science education initiatives funded by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute.