Matt Balazik, Ph.D. is well-known in central Virginia for his research with Atlantic sturgeon. But his work goes far beyond the James River and VCU. Rice Rivers Center is one of the only academic field stations in the U.S. focused on large rivers. Balazik and his team’s cutting-edge research methods – combining genetic studies, satellite tracking and ecological modeling – are not just helping restore the Atlantic sturgeon population but they are also influencing international conservation strategies.

It's no surprise to those who work with Balazik that he is an UNCOMMON hero.

Learn more about his research with the sturgeon here, and in the video below.