Work with thought leaders and academic experts from University of West Florida

# MY RESEARCH INTERESTS I am interested in biogeochemical cycling within marine sediments and the overlying water column, marine botany, and marine microbiology. For my doctoral dissertation, I studied the balance between competing nitrate reduction processes (denitrification, dnra, and anammox) in anoxic marine sediments using sediment thin disc experiments. As part of this work, I used molecular techniques to examine how microbial communities changed after the experiments and differed between treatments. In addition to this experimental work, I studied the microbial community composition of sediments along an estuarine gradient in the Damariscotta River Estuary during different seasons. For my master’s thesis, I studied the biogeochemistry and microbial communities associated with nitrogen fixation in seagrass beds. My thesis focused on the temporal changes of biological nitrogen fixation in the rhizospheres of *Thalassia testudinum*  and *Halodule wrightii* in Santa Rosa Sound, northwest Florida. My study included the assessment of nitrogenase activity, nutrient availability, and microbial assemblage using the *nifH* gene.  # MY PASSION I love the natural sciences, especially biology. Learning the various mechanisms and processes by which the natural world functions fascinates me. I love asking questions, and I believe that it facilitates the growth of my knowledge. During my childhood, my family and I would often travel to the Texas coast and visit aquariums. Even from a young age, I have always marveled at the wonder and beauty of the sea. Learning and discovering more about the ocean increases my interest and passion for marine science.  # MY BACKGROUND I was born and grew up in a rural area of northwest Texas. Until I left to attend the University of Texas at Austin to obtain my undergraduate degree, I lived on our family farm that my great-great-grandparents established after migrating to America from Switzerland. As a child, I was exposed to the wide open spaces of the Texas prairie. I have always loved the outdoors and nature. I attribute my adoration for the natural world to my upbringing in such a desolate and rugged place. Growing up, I learned how to ride horses and raise cattle. Without the conveniences of an urban locale, I obtained experience in building barns and homes and working on automobiles, amongst other necessary skills for life on the plains. I am not afraid to get my hands dirty nor work hard.

Dr. Z. Dennis Kalam is a highly experienced and educated professional with a passion for leadership, management, and education. With over 20 years of experience in various leadership and educational roles, he has developed a strong understanding of effective management strategies and innovative teaching methods. Dr. Kalam received his MBA in Management from Nova Southeastern University in 2000 and went on to earn his PhD in Leadership from Lynn University in 2003. He also holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a specialization in Conflict and Crisis Management from Nova Southeastern University, which he completed in 2010. In 2020, he earned his Education Specialist (EdS) in Curriculum and Assessment from the University of West Florida and followed it with an Education Doctorate (EdD) in Curriculum and Assessment from the same university. Throughout his career, Dr. Kalam has held various leadership positions, including Executive Director at Broward Health. He has also dedicated his time to teaching and has served as a Tenured Professor of Criminal Justice Management at Miami Dade College, as well as an Adjunct Professor at Nova Southeastern University and Keiser University. Dr. Kalam is known for his dynamic and engaging teaching style, as well as his ability to inspire and motivate students to reach their full potential. He is committed to staying current with the latest research and developments in his field and regularly publishes articles and presents at conferences. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dr. Kalam is also actively involved in his community and volunteers his time to various organizations. He is a dedicated mentor and coach, helping individuals and organizations achieve their goals and reach their highest potential. Overall, Dr. Kalam is a dedicated and accomplished professional, with a strong commitment to leadership, management, and education. He continues to make a positive impact in his field and inspire others to do the same.