Name: Daniel DeMartini
BYUH Employee since: 2018
My job at BYUH is: assistant professor in the Faculty of Sciences
I grew up in: Nevada City, California
Graduated: 2004
Passion Project: For the last several years, I have been exploring various techniques and approaches to help make coral restoration in Hawaii more effective and efficient.
I chose to teach at BYUH because: I loved my time as a student, and I had teachers who inspired me to continue my education and put me in a position to become a professor. I love the mission of BYU–Hawaii and being in a place where the spirit of Christ is so strong and a part of the culture.
My favorite part of teaching is mentoring students and watching them grow in confidence. I especially enjoy seeing them connect science to their own lives. When the concepts we explore start to feel personal and meaningful. Being part of that discovery process is what makes teaching so fulfilling for me.
My most cherished memory as a BYUH Student: My freshman roommate, Dave Neville, and I used to walk down to Temple Beach to surf every day after class--rain or shine, windy or dead. Most days, we stayed out so late that we had to sprint back up Kulanui Street to make it to the cafeteria for dinner. There was nothing quite like having saltwater drain from your nose onto your tray as you grabbed your food.
My advice to incoming first-year students is: If you want to get good grades, show up to every class and do all of your reading and assignments on time. It is not rocket science; do the work, and you will see the rewards. Also, remember, if you need help, don't hesitate to ask your professor or go to the tutor/teaching assistant. Everyone on campus wants you to succeed.
My favorite lecture/course to teach is: I really enjoy teaching labs because they’re hands-on and allow students to experience learning in a tangible way. It also gives me the chance to really get to know each one of the students personally. I also love teaching Quantitative Environmental Analysis. This course gives me the opportunity to help students learn how to think like scientists and approach problems with quantitative reasoning and critical thinking.
What sparked my interest in my field: When I was in graduate school, I visited my future mentor, Dan Morse, whose lab was studying the color-changing abilities of cephalopod skin, among other fascinating marine biochemistry projects. I loved how he combined marine science with biomolecular research and engineering; I was hooked immediately.
On Saturday mornings: you’ll hopefully find me out surfing or fishing, or on the sidelines watching my kids play their various sports.
The next big trip I’m taking: I am headed to Okinawa, Japan, for the Cephalopod International Advisory Council Conference to present some of my octopus research. I love cephalopods and Japanese food and culture...perfect.
My favorite holiday of the year is: the summer solstice — it’s also my birthday! I love that it’s the longest day of the year. I wake up at dawn and try to take advantage of every minute outside.
If I could travel anywhere: I’d go to remote Alaska to search for glass fishing floats along the coastline. There’s something magical about the idea of finding those weathered treasures washed ashore after years at sea. Plus, exploring such a wild, untouched place would be an incredible adventure.
If I have a quick 30 minutes: I like to go body surfing at Pounders. Getting into the ocean is the perfect way to reset.
During the summer months: I love going backpacking and fly fishing in the High Sierras. There’s something special about being out in untouched wilderness and seeing nature just as God created it. When I’m out there, I imagine it looks much the same as it did before humans ever walked the earth. It’s also a time to reconnect with my cousin and kids, far away from the noise and distractions of modern life. 
The one thing that can instantly put a smile on my face and something I could eat forever is: Peach rings or a lamb gyro.
Current Projects/research taking place: There’s a lot of exciting science happening right now! My students are diving into a range of hands-on research projects — from studying deadly mushrooms in the mountains behind campus to exploring the unique properties of octopus egg cement and sea urchin pigments. We’re also studying an unusual coral recently found off the coast of Laie to determine whether it’s a rare native species or possibly an invasive one. Upcoming investigations will include studying the strength and mechanics of native fibers and traditional Hawaiian materials, as well as uncovering how traditional knowledge can inspire modern innovations. In my upcoming Environmental Analysis course, we’ll be tackling real-world challenges around the island — analyzing metal pollution in local streams and sea life and exploring how environmental factors affect our ecosystems and food sources. It’s an exciting time for discovery, and I love seeing our students bring curiosity and creativity to research that connects science directly to our island home.