From Student to Teacher: A Journey Back to BIOS

Stuart Robertson returns to ASU BIOS nearly a decade later. Discover how an internship shaped his career.

Nearly a decade ago, Stuart Robertson stood in front of a room of his peers as an eager U.K. Associates of BIOS intern, presenting his first research findings on Bermuda’s lionfish population.

He has come full circle today, standing in the same place—but this time as an Assistant Teaching Professor and Assistant Director of Education for University Programs at ASU Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences(ASU BIOS), inspiring the next generation of marine scientists.

Robertson’s journey began in Bermuda, where he was born to British parents. Although he moved to rural England at eight, the ocean had left an indelible mark on him. This passion led him to study marine biology at the University of Plymouth and obtain a master’s in marine environmental management from the University of York. It was during his master’s program in 2015 that Robertson first came to ASU BIOS as a summer research intern, which was made possible through the support of the U.K. Associates of BIOS.

The internship gave Robertson a unique opportunity to conduct independent research in Bermuda’s waters under the guidance of research fellow, Tim Noyes. Robertson’s project focused on developing a species distribution model for lionfish—a critical step in managing this invasive species in Bermuda. "It was my first experience conducting novel research that had a real-world impact. The internship wasn’t just a stepping stone—it was transformative," Robertson explains. This experience solidified his passion for research and laid the foundation for his future academic pursuits.

"I wouldn't have been able to come to Bermuda without support," he admits, crediting the U.K. Associates of BIOS for making the opportunity possible. "It was fundamental to where I am now. ASU BIOS allowed me to work in a research environment and connect with professionals in the field."

After earning his PhD in Spatial Conservation Planning and Evolution Conservation from the University of Salford, Robertson’s career took him across the U.K., where he focused on science communication, education, and community engagement. However, Robertson’s connection to ASU BIOS remained strong. Through regular interactions with the U.K. Associates, he stayed connected to the institution and maintained relationships with fellow research interns and like-minded peers.

In August 2024, Robertson joined ASU BIOS as an Assistant Teaching Professor and Assistant Director of Education for University Programs. He has embraced his role with enthusiasm, teaching and mentoring students from diverse backgrounds. He relishes our hands-on learning environment, from classroom lectures to fieldwork in Bermuda’s waters. “There’s no better place to teach marine biology,” Robertson explains.

Robertson’s return has brought his journey full circle, allowing him to mentor the latest cohort of U.K. Associates of BIOS interns. “Introducing the new interns to the program was a surreal moment for me,” he shares. “Ten years ago, I was in their position, giving my first research talk. Now, I get to pass the baton to the next generation.”

Reflecting on his path, Robertson emphasizes the importance of internships like the one that shaped his career. “The opportunity to work at a research institute like BIOS is invaluable,” he says. “It not only gave me critical research experience but also connected me to a network of professionals who’ve supported me throughout my journey.” 

As Robertson navigates his new role as a teacher, his goal is clear: to inspire and excite students about the ocean, just as he was inspired as a young intern. His journey from intern to assistant professor highlights the meaningful opportunities ASU BIOS provides and the lasting influence it can have on careers in marine science. 

The U.K. Associates of BIOS have long supported students from universities across the U.K. by providing generous scholarship funding for research internships at ASU BIOS. These internships are a transformative opportunity to broaden knowledge and skills in a world-class research environment.