Community-Driven
Research, Restoration,
& Conservation
Samantha Rosa
Ph.D. Student
&
NOAA Margaret A. Davidson Fellow
My research investigates the reproductive ecology of climate-driven range-expanding subtropical black mangroves (Avicennia germinans) into temperate salt marsh ecosystems. I explore whether pollinators may serve as a “biotic pull” contributing to plants’ adaptation to climate change via migration.
I am invested in harnessing my experiences as an educator and ecologist to make science a community practice. I am currently piloting Community-Driven Research, Restoration, and Conservation projects in Chicago, Illinois and St. Augustine, Florida.
Cultural Ecological Knowledge
I explore cultural ecological knowledge through the support of the Synthesis Center for Conservation and Restoration (sCORE) of the Negaunee Institute for Plant Conservation Science and Action at the Chicago Botanic Garden. I investigate novel ways to preserve ethnobotanical and sociocultural knowledge to strengthen Black, Indigenous, and Latine (BIL) communities.
ʻĀina-based Education
As a NOAA: Margaret A. Davidson Fellow working with Heʻeia National Estuarine Research Reserve I have the privilege of supporting the ‘Āina Education Professional Learning Program for Windward Oʻahu teachers.