Blog
HHMI Gilliam Fellow 2024
I am thrilled and honored to announce my selection as an HHMI Gilliam Fellow!
This fellowship is a vital step toward advancing representation and inclusivity in science, and I am committed to using this opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Over the coming years, my research will focus on developing scientific and management tools to address the climate crisis affecting coral reef ecosystems in the Caribbean. Specifically, I will investigate the role of ocean viruses in shaping the health and resilience of corals and reef fishes in Puerto Rico.
It is crucial that our work not only expands the scientific understanding but, more importantly, provides actionable insights and tools to empower and protect the coastal homelands and waters that are most vulnerable. This research is about more than just data; it's about fostering community resilience, supporting sustainable livelihoods, and ensuring a future where everyone, especially those on the frontlines of climate change, has a voice in the conversation.
Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable future for all!
Olas de Cambio Workshop was a SUCCESS!!
I recently had the privilege of organizing a workshop in collaboration with EcoAzul (https://ecoazul.org/) to educate and train undergraduates in Puerto Rico on marine conservation, molecular biology, and climate action research. The event was a tremendous success! Eighteen students from six universities across the island participated and learned how to conduct biodiversity surveys on coral reefs, perform DNA extractions on environmental samples, and engage in practices for organizing climate action research within local coastal communities. This workshop was made possible through the support of the Expanding Horizons Fellowship at Rice University 🌊🌿
Olas de Cambio Workshop!
I’m excited to announce that I received funding to design and organize a FREE, 6-day summer workshop for undergraduate students at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez. I am partnering with local organizations in Puerto Rico to train students in coral reef conservation research, bioinformatics, and Participatory Action Research (PAR). This summer is going to be awesome!
Up next…Puerto Rico!
#Summer2024
Workshop on Genomics 2023
#marineviruses #bioinformatics #BlackinVirology #CzechRepublic
I had the wonderful opportunity to travel and attend a two-week workshop (titled: Workshop on Genomics 2023) in the Czech Republic!
Coral Spawning in French Polynesia 2022
I conducted an experiment in Moorea, French Polynesia, identifying viruses in the early developing stages of coral larvae. I am pictured here with my lab mates.
(left to right: Carly Karrick, Taylor Walker, Kara Titus, Alex Veglia, me).
#Moorea