College of the Canyons biology professor Dr. Miriam Golbert will deliver the Scholarly Presentation “Galápagos: A Personal Journey on Darwin’s Footsteps” at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center on Thursday, Nov. 19.

The presentation, which is based on Golbert’s research in the Galápagos Islands, will cover topics ranging from where the islands are located and their unique geological formations, before discussing Charles Darwin’s time spent on the islands, along with his various discoveries and scientific theories.

The rich biodiversity and animal life of the Galápagos Islands will also be examined through a collection of Golbert’s personal photographs taken over the course of four trips to the islands.

“The Galápagos Islands are the jewel of endemic species,” said Golbert. “For instance, there is nowhere else in the world where you can see a marine iguana, the only reptile that swims.”

In addition, Golbert hopes to inform attendees about current conservation projects taking place in the region and how they might be able to get involved in the movement to help preserve the islands for generations to come.

“I truly hope this presentation will inspire others to support the conservation and restoration efforts of the Galápagos Islands,” said Golbert.

The Scholarly Presentation “Galápagos: A Personal Journey on Darwin’s Footsteps” will take place at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19.

This event is free and open to the public.

For more information about the College of the Canyons Scholarly Presentation “Galápagos: A Personal Journey on Darwin’s Footsteps” please contact the COC Foundation at (661) 362-3434.

More about the Presenter

Dr. Miriam Golbert currently serves as chair of the college’s biological sciences department, while also teaching courses in cellular and molecular biology and human physiology. She is also the faculty coordinator for the COC Honors Program.

Golbert started her education in Argentina, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry. She also holds a Master of Science in biology with emphasis in cellular and molecular biology from California State University, Northridge (CSUN) and a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from Nova Southeastern University, Florida.

In addition, Golbert is actively involved in a number of activities and initiatives at the college. She has worked to create student development workshops on topics including test-taking strategies, and has participated in the college’s First Year Experience program designed for incoming freshmen.

She is also involved in curriculum development for the biological sciences department, having helped to create courses in the areas of human anatomy, human physiology and concepts of evolution. Golbert is also in the process of developing an associate of science transfer degree for the biology department.

Golbert also developed the first study-abroad program for the college’s biological sciences department and has traveled with COC students to Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama, Argentina, Uruguay, Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands.

For the past seven years she has also served as the faculty advisor for college’s Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society, Alpha Nu Xi chapter, while working to secure several awards for the chapter at the organization’s Annual International Conferences.