College of Natural Sciences Student Spotlight: Madison Syrett Watkins
Posted: February 10, 2025 | Author: Southern Utah University | Read Time: 3 minutes
SUU College of Natural Sciences student Madison Syrett Watkins hails from the southern Utah “metropolis” of Tropic. Madison is a graduate of Bryce Valley High School and began her undergraduate career here at SUU in the fall of 2021. Madi is a geosciences major and following graduation, her ultimate career goal is to become a paleontologist - a field in which she is already making significant contributions.
Madison has had the opportunity to conduct undergraduate research, and her current research is on a newly identified species of hadrosaur (duck-billed dinosaur) from the Wahweap Formation within the Grand Staircase - Escalante National Monument. This species represents one of the oldest known hadrosaurs from North America, making it a pivotal discovery for understanding the early evolutionary history of this group. Her work focuses on the process of fossilization and geology of the fossil sites to reconstruct the environmental conditions present at the time of the animals’ deaths. This approach is essential for understanding the habitats these dinosaurs lived in, their behavioral patterns, and the processes that contributed to their preservation. By exploring these factors, her research helps provide a fuller understanding of hadrosaur evolution and their adaptations to environmental change.
Madi’s career goals are more broad than just her own research. She explained, “I aim to advance scientific knowledge within the field by actively contributing to both new and ongoing research efforts. Engaging in meaningful research has always been a goal of mine, and I am eager to contribute to discoveries that deepen our understanding of ancient life.”
Additionally, Madison wants to one day help mentor the next generation of paleontologists. She is quick to point to her many mentors, including faculty in the Geosciences Department here at SUU, highlighting the ways they have shaped her career. She feels a strong responsibility to support and inspire future paleontologists in a similar way.
When not in the classroom, lab, or field site, Madi is active with student organizations here at SUU. She has had the opportunity to serve as the President of the Association for Women in Geoscience Club. In addition, she is actively engaged with the SUU Geology Club. She is supported in the department by the Parley Dalley Geology Scholarship and was a recent award winner at the College of Natural Sciences Research Symposium where she shared her research.
Madison says that one of her favorite things about studying at SUU is the meaningful connections she has with both her peers and professors. The small class sizes at SUU have created an environment that fosters collaboration and close-knit relationships among students, allowing her to connect with classmates and build lasting friendships. Additionally, she has greatly benefited from the opportunity to build strong relationships with her professors. “Their approachability and genuine investment in my success have enhanced my academic experience and provided guidance that will have a lasting impact on my future,” Madison shared.
Away from campus, Madi and her husband of three years are passionate about creating a life filled with laughter and adventure and fostering a shared passion for exploring the outdoors. We can’t wait to see where Madison’s adventure will take her next!
Tags: College of Natural Sciences Career and Professional Development CurStu Geosciences
