Demetra is a 2020 CSU COAST Science Policy intern at California Ocean Science Trust. She is a driven marine ecologist that is not only passionate about understanding and conserving earth’s seascapes, but also about improving scientific literacy in hopes of refining the delicate connection between science and society.
After graduating from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science degree in wildlife, ecology, and conservation, Demetra sought the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the global and human dimensions of conservation and life sciences through service with the United States Peace Corps. After focusing her service on wetland conservation and restoration in a small rural Paraguayan fishing community, she returned to the US with the intention of continuing work in aquatic ecology. Demetra worked both in the management and research arenas of aquatic ecology before pursuing graduate studies. She is currently a second-year master’s student at California State University, Northridge in Dr. Kerry Nickols’ lab. Demetra’s thesis work is focused on understanding the biogeochemical services communities provide on temperate rocky reefs. She is excited to join the science policy interface and work towards collaborative ocean solutions.
