Anela Akiona

Originally from Hawaiʻi, I have always been fascinated by the ocean. I received a BA in Marine Science from the University of San Diego and a MS in Marine Biology from the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa before starting at UCSD. As a fourth year PhD student at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, I study what factors govern species distribution on coral reefs, with a focus on how we can make these systems more resilient to the negative impacts of climate change, and I am passionate about working with local communities to safeguard their marine resources. After graduating, my goal is to return home to Hawaiʻi to continue conducting research that informs management to conserve and protect our coral reefs and coastal resources. I also hope to serve as a mentor to other Native Hawaiians to increase our representation in STEM.