04
Jodie Rummer
Professor and Research Associate at James Cook University, North Queensland, Australia
Jodie Rummer ‘99, ‘04 is a professor and research associate at James Cook University in North Queensland, Australia. Jodie combines discovery with mentorship to explore critical questions about how marine life copes with climate change while training the next generation of scientists to tackle future challenges.
What inspired you to pursue a career in marine biology?
As a child, I was fascinated by water, whether it was lakes in Illinois or the Gulf of Mexico on family trips. UWF allowed me to dive into hands-on marine science research, combining curiosity and discovery to ignite my lifelong passion. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology in 1999 and my Master of Science in Biology in 2004. Both gave me a strong foundation to pursue the bigger questions about how fish and other marine life cope with environmental change. I then completed my Ph.D. at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver in 2010. I'm now a professor at James Cook University in North Queensland, Australia, where I have been since 2011.
Why did you choose to study at UWF?
UWF offered me the perfect blend of small-class mentorship and direct access to the ocean. I wasn’t just sitting in lecture halls; I was out on boats, wading through coastal lagoons and in the lab learning how science could make a difference. I was able to get involved in research early, working on a project in the Dry Tortugas National Park documenting fish diversity and resilience in extreme environments. The faculty at UWF encouraged me to ask bold questions, supported me in the field and instilled the confidence to pursue an international career. Their mentorship is something I now strive to pay forward to my own students. UWF was the stepping stone for my career.
What advice would you give to those who may have to travel for their education or career?
Say yes to opportunities, even when they seem intimidating. Every move broadened my perspective, built my resilience and created lifelong collaborations. Science is global. Embracing that will shape not only your career, but also who you are. Each step – Florida, Canada, Australia and beyond – was both daunting and exhilarating and reinforced that growth comes from pushing beyond your comfort zone.