Quentin Felty is the Interim Chair of FIU Stempel College’s Department of Environmental Health Sciences, where he also serves as an associate professor. He is also the graduate program director for the Ph.D. in Environmental Health Sciences program, where he supports the next generation of scientists.
Felty leads research that lies at the intersection of environmental exposures and human health. His primary focus is on the impact of estrogenic chemicals and environmental pollutants that mimic estrogen, particularly in the development and progression of estrogen-dependent cancers, such as breast cancer.
Outside of FIU, Felty is an underwater photographer, capturing photos of aquatic life and habitats. Learn more about Felty below.
Tell us about your marine photography.
I’m an avid underwater photographer and scuba diver. Whenever I get the chance, I explore the oceans—locally here in South Florida and around the world—capturing images of marine life and underwater landscapes. South Florida is especially close to my heart; it’s home to one of the only coral reef systems in the continental U.S., with warm waters, excellent visibility, and a rich diversity of marine species.
I first got scuba certified in the 1990s—in a cold, murky rock quarry—but everything changed when I experienced the vibrant underwater world of South Florida. From manatees and sea turtles to sharks and massive goliath groupers, the marine life here is incredible. I’ve even had the chance to dive in some of the region’s most iconic sites, including the world-renowned blackwater dives, where you drift in the open ocean at night surrounded by bioluminescent creatures. It’s a completely surreal experience and one that continues to inspire me.
How did you get into this hobby?
After completing hundreds of dives, I found myself wanting a new challenge beneath the surface. That’s when I turned to underwater photography. I began learning how to use a DSLR camera in a specialized underwater housing with strobes—combining my love for the ocean with the technical and creative aspects of photography.
Sharks are one of my favorite subjects to photograph. I’m passionate about capturing their beauty and helping shift public perception through education, showing how vital they are to maintaining the balance of healthy ocean ecosystems.
I’ve also become fascinated with blackwater diving—drifting at night in the Gulf Stream to photograph bioluminescent creatures during their nightly vertical migration, one of the largest migrations on the planet. It’s an otherworldly experience that continues to fuel my curiosity and appreciation for the ocean’s hidden wonders.
Photos courtesy of Quentin Felty.
What do you like to do when you’re not on campus?
When I’m not on campus, I enjoy spending time outdoors—especially in or around the water. I love snorkeling, kayaking, and scuba diving whenever I get the chance. I’m also a proud hockey dad, and much of my free time is spent at the rink cheering on my son during his ice hockey games. As a big fan of the Florida Panthers, I never miss the chance to catch a game—Go Cats Go!