Dr. Nastassia N. Jones is a Professor of Science and Mathematics Education at Southern University and A&M College, where she is deeply committed to providing STEM experiences and opportunities to marginalized communities. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Albany State University and both a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the Molecular Biology, Microbiology, and Biochemistry program at Southern Illinois University, Dr. Jones has experience in teaching various undergraduate biology and graduate STEM education research courses and providing professional development to in-service K-12 STEM teachers. Her interests are integrating service learning, technology, and authentic research experiences into STEM courses, K-12 teacher professional development focused on increasing STEM confidence and competency, and grant writing to provide STEM programs to marginalized communities. Dr. Jones has two current research projects: scientific identity development of middle and high school students and educators in a global informal science program, and effective teacher professional development in integrating virtual reality in middle and high school classrooms.