Darren K. Okimoto, PhD
Associate Director and Extension Leader at University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant College Program
Kapahulu, O‘ahu
Field of study/specialty
My academic field is in biology, specifically physiology and endocrinology. Within that I study biological clocks and circadian rhythms within organisms.
What inspired you to pursue STEM?
My love for the ocean was the one thing that inspired me. I initially was interested in marine biology, but UH did not offer that yet, so I ended up majoring in zoology. I took a course in ichthyology (study of fishes), and met a professor who invited me to join his research lab at HIMB (Hawai‘i Institute of Marine Biology). I then ended up getting a masters in zoology. The research experience gave me a chance to do research and pursue graduate studies in that field.
What is something you wish you knew when starting out in this field/ advice you would give NHPI students interested in pursuing this type of career?
Seek out mentors or other students and get advice on what they should be doing/who they should be talking to. Look for fellowship and mentorship opportunities. Looking for hands-on experience opportunities is really important. With a focus on justice, equity and diversity, there will be much more opportunities for minorities to pursue the sciences. Look out for those opportunities and don't be afraid to reach out to people and ask for advice.
My academic field is in biology, specifically physiology and endocrinology. Within that I study biological clocks and circadian rhythms within organisms.
What inspired you to pursue STEM?
My love for the ocean was the one thing that inspired me. I initially was interested in marine biology, but UH did not offer that yet, so I ended up majoring in zoology. I took a course in ichthyology (study of fishes), and met a professor who invited me to join his research lab at HIMB (Hawai‘i Institute of Marine Biology). I then ended up getting a masters in zoology. The research experience gave me a chance to do research and pursue graduate studies in that field.
What is something you wish you knew when starting out in this field/ advice you would give NHPI students interested in pursuing this type of career?
Seek out mentors or other students and get advice on what they should be doing/who they should be talking to. Look for fellowship and mentorship opportunities. Looking for hands-on experience opportunities is really important. With a focus on justice, equity and diversity, there will be much more opportunities for minorities to pursue the sciences. Look out for those opportunities and don't be afraid to reach out to people and ask for advice.