Job summary and/or description of your work/research:
I am currently a California Sea Grant Fellow for the NOAA Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. I was awarded this position after completing my Master of Science at Cal Poly Humboldt and applying to the California Sea Grant Fellowship program. In this role, I support various initiatives, including our Sanctuary Advisory Council, Outreach and Education Team, Research team and our Resource Protection Team.
What do you enjoy most about your work/research:
I thoroughly enjoy my job because it offers a wide range of activities. I have the opportunity to engage with the passionate and knowledgeable communities of Santa Barbara and Ventura County, who are deeply connected to the Channel Islands and their surrounding waters. I also lead students in intertidal citizen science monitoring, contributing to a vital dataset that informs the management of these beloved ecosystems. Additionally, as a scientific diver with our research team, I search for endangered white abalone and monitor the sanctuary’s beautiful ecosystems. I also assist our resource protection team with whale conservation by developing a boater safety course to educate recreational boaters on safe interactions with wildlife in California waters. This position is incredibly rewarding, as it perfectly combines my greatest passions: the ocean, community, and science!
Inspiration:
I am inspired by nature! Curiosity for the magical ocean ecosystem and its magnificent inhabitants drives my passion for ecology. I love learning from and being inspired by people who have a deep connection to nature and are stewards of the environment.