I started my PhD in the marecotec lab in September 2020 after earning my Masters of Professional Science (MPS) degree in marine conservation at the University of Miami, where I focused on employing coral restoration techniques to enhance coastal protection.
What made you decide to go into marine science?
I chose to study marine science because the ocean is full of species that are somehow both ancient but also constantly adapting to environments that would feel as foreign and harsh to humans as outer space. I wanted the chance to disentangle some of the complexities of marine systems, especially those that are ecologically important like coral reefs. It’s exciting to think that now might the best time in history to study the ocean since we are in an age of accelerating technology that allows us to explore areas that have previously never been accessed by humans.
What is the focus of your research/work? What do you think is the most important takeaway from your research?
I study how hydrodynamic regimes influence the distribution and ecology of deep-sea reefs. Using time series of environmental characteristics like temperature, turbidity, water chemistry, and organic material, I look for patterns that can be related to ocean currents like the Gulf Stream, and how these patterns can influence potential benefits and/or stress conditions on a reef. I also look at small-scale flow patterns around coral skeletons using an experimental flume, which can help us understand things like food delivery and gamete export in different conditions
What is the coolest thing you’ve done through your work?
Getting to work on ships has been my favorite experience since starting my PhD. There are so many things I love about it, from learning how to operate highly specialized equipment, to exploring life in the deep sea first-hand, to sharing the experiences with friends and family through telepresence. It’s also allowed me to develop strong relationships with some amazing scientists and crew members from all over the world.
What is one fun fact about you?
I love to draw in my spare time, and consider one of my favorite media to be sharpie on styrofoam cup (we shrink these by sending them to deep-sea depths on CTD casts and ROV dives).
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
Shapeshifting definitely. It means you could fly by shifting into a bird, become (virtually) invisible as a bug, or turn into anyone you want all with just one super power.