Following a 25 year career as faculty in Biological Sciences at the University of Toronto that culminated with her attaining its highest academic rank - University Professor -

in January 2026 Maydianne moved to York University where she serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Science.  

With a PhD in Neurobiology & Behavior from Cornell University, Maydianne has over 20 years of experience in science research, teaching, outreach, science communication, and leadership. Maydianne has received research awards that span new investigator prizes through to exemplar awards for career-long research contributions. 

Ten years ago, Maydianne founded the Toronto Initiative for Diversity & Equity (TIDE), a grassroots service group that has been serving the University of Toronto by leading conversations & workshops based on providing evidence-informed practical advice for creating inclusive academic cultures. In 2020 she was a co-founder and inaugural President of the Canadian Black Scientists Network, a growing organization that now connects over 1000 Black professionals and students in STEMM and their allies from across the country, and advocates with policy makers, universities and funders.

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Maydianne's formal academic leadership roles include terms of Vice Dean Faculty Affairs & Equity, Acting Vice Principal Academic and Dean, and Special Advisor to the Dean at he the University of Toronto Scarborough and at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education.

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​With a career-long dedication to public outreach and science communication, you can see or hear Maydianne on The Nature of Things (Bug Sex, First Animals, The Great Wild Indoors), CBC Radio's Ideas,  and hosting the podcast The New Normal.

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