Michelle Paddack

 Michelle Paddack taking data underwater off the shore of Elato Island.  Photo credit: Scott Davis
Contact Information:
  • office phone: 805-730-4128
  • email: mjpaddack@pipeline.sbcc.edu
  • office: EBS 320
Courses:
  • BIOL 124: Biological Oceanography 
  • BIOL 125: Marine Biology
  • BIOL 142: Marine Science
  • ENVS 110: Humans & the Biological Environment
C.V.

I am a marine biologist and ecologist. At SBCC I teach Biological Oceanography, Marine Biology, and Methods in Field Biology.  Degrees: Ph.D.(Marine Science): Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, University of Miami.  M.Sc. (Marine Science): University of California at Santa Cruz.  B.A. (Marine Biology), University of California at Santa Cruz. 

In addition to teaching, I actively conduct research and am always looking for ways to involve undergraduates in current research science. I currently work in two very different ecosystems – coral reefs and cold/temperate reefs (kelp forests & rocky reefs). I specialize in reef fish ecology, working mainly with kelp forest fishes here on the west coast and herbivorous fishes (parrotfish, surgeonfish, etc) in the tropics. I explore ecological interactions between fish and their reef environments and seek to discover how these interactions structure and maintain these communities. I also investigate how environmental change and human actions affect the population dynamics and behaviors of fishes. I work closely with communities & fishermen across the world to help create more sustainable ecosystems.

Prior to my scientific career, I was a principal dancer with ‘Images of Cultural Artistry’, a Katherine Dunham–inspired dance company in Washington, D.C.  I still strive to keep art and dance a strong part of life, for myself and others.

Links to some of Michelle's coral reef publications
Link to an article in the Channels 

Teaching & Life Philosophy
Most of my classes are designed for non-science majors – I love to share how exciting and interesting science can be and hope to inspire people to be involved in this great field. But regardless of a student’s career choice, my underlying goal is to find ways to connect people with the ocean and nature in meaningful and thoughtful ways so that each person is empowered to help ensure sustainable ocean and Earth ecosystems.