The Chemical Oceanography Lab main focus revolves around the geochemical, physical and biological processes that regulate the distribution of trace metals and nutrients in estuarine, coastal and open-ocean environments. Our work combines field studies, oceanographic cruises and the development of autonomous, miniaturized chemical analyzers to improve the spatial and temporal resolution of chemical measurements in the marine environment. In collaboration with MLML’s Aquaculture facility, we also investigate the environmental impacts of seaweed aquaculture with a focus on nutrient uptake and the emission of volatile brominated gases to the atmosphere. 

Our research interests:

• Trace metal and nutrient cycling and implications for marine productivity
• Development of autonomous miniaturized chemical analyzers
• Ocean observatories instrumentation for essential biogeochemical parameters
• Seaweed aquaculture as a means to mitigate nutrient pollution
• Production rates of short-lived brominated gases from macroalgae
• Passive nutrient removal technologies 
• Sources, transport and fate of microplastics in local waterways and the Monterey Bay