Mileisha L. Velázquez López

2024 – 2025 Global Change Research Fellow

Statement of purpose:

Drawing from my personal experiences as a Puerto Rican and through observations of Florida’s coastal communities, I have come to appreciate the critical need for preemptive strategies to mitigate the deterioration of coastlines and water quality resulting from atmospheric phenomena and anthropogenic activities. Consequently, my academic pursuits have been directed towards obtaining a bachelor’s degree in biology and a master’s in marine sciences from the University of Puerto Rico, driven by a desire to deepen my expertise in coastal matters. This educational journey has paved the way for my long-term career aspirations within the environmental sector allowing me to pursue my passion in a field that is both vital and intriguing. My doctoral research in environmental engineering at the University of Florida endeavors to address these pressing issues by concentrating on the development of sustainable resilience plans. These are indispensable for preserving our natural resources against threats posed by increasing sea levels, marine contamination, and unsustainable development practices, all of which are exacerbated by a dynamic environment.

Description of research:

My research interests span across sea-level rise, sustainable coastal resilience planning, and the conservation of aquatic ecosystems, deeply rooted in my identity as a student of Puerto Rican heritage. Consequently, my Ph.D. thesis will concentrate on investigating the impact of emerging contaminants, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), on aquatic ecosystems, particularly focusing on microbial and biofilm dynamics in estuarine settings. This research aims to assess the risks posed to vulnerable and underrepresented communities exposed to these contaminants. The core objectives of my projects include understanding pollutant transport mechanisms, conducting comprehensive risk assessments, exploring ecotoxicological implications, evaluating the impact on susceptible coastal communities, and developing effective remediation strategies. Despite the invaluable ecological services provided by coastal regions, they remain under significant stress from anthropogenic pollution. Motivated by the imperative need to enhance water quality and thereby contribute to improved ecological and human health, my research seeks to address the pervasive issue of exposure to various emerging contaminants.

Contact Information:

Email: velazquezm@ufl.edu

Faculty Advisor:

Dr. Katherine Y. Deliz Quiñones (Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences)