Hiii!

My name is John Amiel Flores (they/them). I am currently a second year PhD Student at the University of California, Los Angeles. My overarching research goal is to investigate and predict how rapid environmental changes will affect ecological communities in tropical ecosystems by understanding the interplay between the multiple scales of biology. I am currently interested in how the impacts of physical disturbances from storms can alter reef communities. More specifically, I am currently investigating how epibiont communities on coral reef macroalgae respond after storms​.

 

Establishing and nurturing relationships with local communities ties very closely to my values and career goals. I hope to conduct a science where I can foster sustainable relationships with coastal communities to work alongside them in addressing issues in marine conservation.

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Alongside my career aspirations, I have a love for mentorship and teaching. As a mentor, some of the most satisfying moments I experience are witnessing moments when things finally “click” as well as reflecting on the journey of growth. I will continue to mentor students interested in the marine sciences in hopes that my guidance will enrich their experience and help fuel their flames.