Epic Stuff!, Featured

Maydianne Andrade

(April 2025)

AFRIQAAA Editors
April 19, 2025

Synopsis

Maydianne Andrade is a Jamaican-born Canadian ecologist and professor at the University of Toronto Scarborough, popular for her research focus on the mating behaviour of spiders, with a particular emphasis on the Australian redback spider. Additionally, she actively engages with the public on topics relating to science, equity, and diversity. She hosts the podcast The New Norma and serves as president and co-founder of the Canadian Black Scientists Network.

Introduction

She is a spider whisperer, a science superstar, and a champion of equity and diversity. She is Maydianne Andrade, a Canadian ecologist and professor of Jamaican origin, a force of nature in the scientific cosmos, who transcends the bounds of traditional academia, emerging as a titan of unparalleled brilliance and tenacity. A luminary at the University of Toronto Scarborough, Andrade’s ascent to scientific stardom is nothing short of an odyssey. Battling against the tempest of discrimination and self-doubt as a Black woman in a predominantly white and male-dominated field, conquering the scientific frontier and shattering the glass ceiling, leaving a trail of inspiration in her wake. Her research on the mating behavior of spiders, particularly the enigmatic Australian redback spider, is nothing less than a symphony of revelation—transforming the narrative of the natural world. Her scientific opus—an adornment in the pages of prestigious journals and echo through countless citations, reveals her indomitable spirit and intellectual prowess, placing her on a pedestal of scientific eminence. She is a leader, a mentor, a communicator, and a visionary. She is Maydianne Andrade, and this is her story.

Who is Maydianne Andrade?
What Makes Maydianne Andrade So Special
What Does Maydianne Andrade Care About?
What Are Maydianne Andrade’s Greatest Deeds?
What Has Maydianne Andrade Faced as Challenges?
What Keeps Maydianne Andrade Motivated?
Why Is Maydianne Andrade Such a Role Model?
What Is Maydianne Andrade Currently Working On?
What Could Slow Maydianne Andrade Down?
What Can You Learn From Maydianne Andrade?

Pro Tips Summary

1. Who is Maydianne Andrade?

Maydianne Andrade, a distinguished Jamaican-born Canadian ecologist and professor at the University of Toronto Scarborough, is a luminary whose brilliance extends far beyond the confines of academia. Notable for her groundbreaking research on the intricacies of spider mating behavior, particularly with the Australian redback spider, Andrade is also a fervent advocate for science, equity, and diversity. At the forefront of her diverse roles, she serves as the president and co-founder of the Canadian Black Scientists Network and captivates audiences as the host of the enlightening podcast, The New Normal.

Andrade’s journey to becoming a global scientific icon and a leader in equity education is a narrative of triumph over adversity. In a field historically dominated by white males, she faced and conquered formidable challenges, dismantling stereotypes and overcoming discrimination. Balancing personal and professional life demands, Andrade credits her success to the unwavering support of her family, mentors, and peers, who fueled her resilience and propelled her towards realizing her dreams.

Delving into the intricacies of spider mating behavior, Andrade’s research unearths captivating insights into the evolution of sexual selection, cannibalism, communication, and plasticity. Using the Australian redback spider as a model system, she unveils the intricate dance of sacrifice and control in the realm of mating.

Her accolades read like a superhero’s resume – the Canada Research Chair in Integrative Behavioural Ecology, the Lawrence J. Burpee Medal, and honorary membership in the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. These recognitions are not just luck, but a result of her publications in prestigious journals and features in textbooks and media outlets, affirming her status as a preeminent figure in the scientific community.

Beyond the laboratory, Andrade emerges as a luminary in education and advocacy. Inspiring countless students at various levels, she pioneers innovative workshops on equity and bias. As the founder of the Toronto Initiative for Diversity and Excellence and a trailblazing advocate for inclusive recruitment, Andrade reshapes the cultural landscape of academia. Her role as the co-founder and president of the Canadian Black Scientists Network further cements her commitment to showcasing and supporting Black Canadians in STEM fields.

Maydianne Andrade’s indomitable spirit extends to the virtual realm, where she recently orchestrated the groundbreaking first virtual conference on Black Excellence in STEMM, attracting over 1,500 participants. Her weekly podcast, The New Normal, becomes a platform for exploring the profound impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, painting a vision of a more equitable and sustainable future.

In the grand tapestry of science and equity, Maydianne Andrade emerges not only as a trailblazer but as a role model for aspiring scientists. Her significant contributions to the understanding of the natural world, together with her transformative impact on academia and society, showcase her as a shining example of excellence, curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and compassion in the 21st century. Maydianne Andrade is not just a scientist; she is a catalyst for change and justice, leaving an enduring legacy for generations to come.

2. What Makes Maydianne Andrade So Special?

What sets Maydianne Andrade apart and makes her an exceptional individual:

Scientific Innovation: Notable as a Jamaican-born Canadian ecologist and professor, Andrade has significant contributions to the advancement of popular understanding of spider mating behavior, particularly with the Australian redback spider, showcasing her scientific brilliance.
Equity Advocacy: Co-founding and presiding over the Canadian Black Scientists Network, Andrade is a trailblazer in promoting diversity and inclusion in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine, reflecting her commitment to breaking barriers and fostering representation.
Public Engagement: As the host of “The New Normal” podcast, Andrade utilizes her platform to explore the profound impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing to public discourse and envisioning a more equitable and sustainable future.
Leadership: Beyond academia, Andrade assumes leadership roles, embodying qualities of a mentor, communicator, and visionary, shaping a path for positive societal change.

Maydianne Andrade is noteworthy for being an innovator who skillfully interweaves the fields of science and equity. In addition to spearheading innovative research into spider mating behaviour, she is a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the academic and societal spheres. A true leader, mentor, communicator, and visionary, Andrade spearheads scientific breakthroughs igniting inspiration and empowerment in countless individuals

3. What Does Maydianne Andrade Care About?

Maydianne Andrade cares about many things, but some of her main interests are:

Science: She loves nature and the diversity of life, especially spiders. She conducts cutting-edge research on the evolution and ecology of spider mating behavior and teaches and mentors students in biology and ecology
Equity: She commits to promoting diversity and inclusion in academia and society, and addressing the barriers and biases that affect marginalized groups, especially Black people. Along with her work as a podcast host focusing on equity concerns in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, she is the co-founder and currently manages the Canadian Black Scientists Network.
Communication: She is passionate about sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm for science and equity with the public, through various media platforms and outreach activities. She features on TV shows, podcasts, radio, and magazines, and delivers public lectures and workshops.

4. What Are Maydianne Andrade’s Greatest Deeds?

Maydianne Andrade’s legacy shows remarkable achievements, including uncovering the evolutionary and ecological intricacies of male sexual sacrifice and female cannibalism in Australian redback spiders. She goes beyond the scientific realm, co-founding and spearheading the Canadian Black Scientists Network, a national professional society that dedicatedly supports and showcases Black Canadians in STEMM fields.

Adding a touch of contemporary insight, Andrade takes the helm of the podcast “The New Normal,” delving into the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our lives and society. Through this platform, she not only analyses the challenges but also envisions a more equitable and sustainable future.

Beyond the airwaves, Andrade is a catalyst for change in academia, crafting and delivering innovative, data-informed workshops and modules on equity and bias. Her efforts extend from the University of Toronto to a broader audience, creating a ripple effect that challenges and transforms perspectives on diversity and inclusion. Maydianne Andrade’s deeds are not merely accomplishments; they are proof of her commitment to scientific discovery, social progress, and the creation of a more just and equitable world.

5. What Has Maydianne Andrade Faced as Challenges?

Maydianne Andrade, a trailblazing Black woman in science, has confronted a multitude of challenges that speak to her resilience and tenacity, including:

Battling overt discrimination and enduring microaggressions that, instead of dimming her brilliance, fuels her determination and commitment to her work.
Navigating feelings of isolation and a lack of support in an environment that provides few opportunities to connect with fellow Black scientists, impeding her access to potential mentors and collaborators.
Confronting the pervasive stereotypes, discrimination, and self-doubt that seek to derail her dream of becoming a doctor and researcher, yet failing in the face of her unyielding spirit and drive.
Juggling the intricate balance of personal and professional life as a mother, scientist, and equity leader, exemplifying her ability to thrive in multiple roles and serve as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges.

6. What Keeps Maydianne Andrade Motivated?

Maydianne Andrade’s unwavering motivation springs from:

Curiosity and Passion for Science: At the core of her being, Andrade’s relentless curiosity and profound passion drive her exploration of the intricacies of science, with a particular fascination for the diversity and behavior of spiders. Her curious spirit fuels groundbreaking discoveries that captivate both the scientific community and the public.
Commitment to Equity and Inclusion: A driving force for Andrade is her commitment to making science and academia more equitable and inclusive, especially for Black students and scholars. Her advocacy goes beyond the laboratory, challenging and transforming the landscape to ensure a space where everyone, regardless of background, can thrive.
Knowledge Sharing and Public Engagement: Maydianne Andrade finds motivation in her ability to share her wealth of knowledge and infectious enthusiasm with the public. Whether through media appearances or outreach platforms, she extends the boundaries of science communication, fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world and inspiring the next generation of curious minds.

7. Why Is Maydianne Andrade Such a Role Model?

Maydianne Andrade stands as an exemplary role model, a beacon of excellence harmonizing both the realms of science and equity. Her groundbreaking discoveries in spider mating behavior shape her legacy, showcasing her prowess as a scientist. Beyond the laboratory, she champions diversity and inclusion in academia and society, embodying the qualities of a leader, mentor, communicator, and visionary. Through her inspiring journey, Andrade not only ignites passion but also inspires countless individuals to pursue their aspirations, fostering a collective mission to make a positive and lasting impact on the world.

8. What Is Maydianne Andrade Currently Working On?

Maydianne Andrade’s dynamism extends to an array of cutting-edge research projects delving into the behavior, ecology, and evolution of spiders and other animals. Her recent areas of exploration include:

Developmental Plasticity and Sexual Selection: Investigating the intricate links between developmental plasticity and the fascinating realm of sexual selection, unravelling the nuanced interplay of adaptation and evolutionary dynamics.
Chemical and Vibratory Communication Mechanisms: Shedding light on the mechanisms governing chemical and vibratory communication in the animal kingdom, exploring the intricacies of signals that shape social interactions and mating rituals.
Opportunistic Mating Tactics and Demography: Unveiling the mysteries of opportunistic mating tactics and demography, delving into the adaptive strategies employed by various species in the pursuit of reproductive success.
Dynamic Interactions in Inter-Male Competition and Female Choice: Exploring the dynamic interplay between inter-male competition and female choice, unraveling the complex dance of factors influencing mating dynamics within animal communities.

She is also working on various public engagement and equity initiatives, such as:

The New Normal Podcast: As the host of the weekly podcast “The New Normal,” Andrade explores the profound societal impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, sparking conversations on how to navigate challenges and collectively build a more equitable and sustainable future.
Canadian Black Scientists Network: Co-founding and leading the Canadian Black Scientists Network, Andrade champions a national professional society dedicated to supporting and showcasing Black Canadians in STEMM fields, fostering diversity and representation.
Equity Workshops and Modules: A trailblazer in equity education, Andrade creates and delivers innovative, data-informed workshops and modules on equity and bias for faculty, staff, and students at the University of Toronto and beyond, shaping the dialogue on inclusivity in academia.

9. What Could Slow Maydianne Andrade Down?

Maydianne Andrade, despite her remarkable achievements, faces potential hurdles capable of impeding her progress such as:

Inadequate Funding and Resources: The lack of sufficient funding and resources for her research and equity initiatives poses a significant challenge, potentially limiting the scope and impact of her groundbreaking work.
Systemic Racism and Bias: The persistent presence of systemic racism and bias in academia and society creates formidable barriers for Black scientists and scholars, adding an extra layer of challenge to Andrade’s endeavors.
Time and Expertise Demands: As a leader, mentor, communicator, and visionary, the high demand for Andrade’s time and expertise may become a factor that slows her down, stretching her capacity to meet expectations across various roles.
Balancing Personal and Professional Life: The potential for burnout and stress arises from the delicate balancing act required to manage her personal and professional life. As a mother, scientist, and equity leader, the demands on her time and energy may become overwhelming.

10. What Can You Learn From Maydianne Andrade?

Here are some invaluable lessons to glean from Maydianne Andrade:

Follow Your Passion Despite Challenges: Embrace challenges and barriers on your journey; let your curiosity and passion for science guide you, for it is through overcoming obstacles that you achieve true greatness.
Use Research to Illuminate the Human Condition: Harness your research and expertise to contribute to our understanding of the natural world and the intricacies of the human condition, leaving an indelible mark on collective knowledge.
Share Knowledge Enthusiastically: Extend the boundaries of academia by sharing your knowledge and enthusiasm with the public through diverse media and outreach platforms, fostering a connection between scientific discovery and public understanding.
Advocate for Diversity and Inclusion: Champion diversity and inclusion in academia and society, actively addressing barriers and biases that disproportionately affect marginalized groups. Be a catalyst for positive change.
Provide Support and Mentorship: Seek and provide support and mentorship to others who share your goals and dreams, fostering a supportive community that propels individuals forward on their respective journeys.

Pro Tips

If you have interest in her research on spider mating behaviour, check out her website- (Maydianne Andrade | Department of Biological Sciences (utoronto.ca)) or watch her documentaries on YouTube
If you want to learn more about her equity and inclusion initiatives, visit the Canadian Black Scientists Network (https://www.universityaffairs.ca/features/feature-article/maydianne-andrade-a-champion-for-change/) or listen to her podcast-The New Normal, on YouTube.
If you need mentorship or collaboration opportunities, contact her by email at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter @MaydianneA.

Summary

Maydianne Andrade, the Jamaican-born Canadian ecologist, transcends the boundaries of science, earning her title as a spider whisperer and a dynamic advocate for equity. Renowned for revolutionizing our understanding of spider mating behavior, especially with the Australian redback spider, Andrade’s impact extends beyond academia.

As the co-founder and president of the Canadian Black Scientists Network, she pioneers diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. Hosting the podcast “The New Normal,” Andrade explores the pandemic’s profound effects and envisions a more equitable future. A leader, mentor, communicator, and visionary, she seamlessly intertwines scientific brilliance with a commitment to positive societal change, truly embodying the essence of awesomeness.