REU Leadership Vignettes

Ana Arellano

Dr. Ana Arellano, Director

Institution, Major and Hobbies 

I obtained a Ph.D. in Chemical Oceanography at USF College of Marine Science, where I currently am an Assistant Professor of Instruction and Director of the Making Waves Research Experience for Undergraduates. My hobbies include making pottery and yoga.

Research and Career Interests

My primary research interests involve biogeochemical cycling of carbon in both marine and freshwater environments and processes that influence biomarkers and optical properties of colored dissolved organic matter. At the University of South Florida, I oversee Graduate Exemplary Mentoring (GEM) meetings that focus on providing a safe space and nurturing relationships among students within the College of Marine Science (CMS). Previously, I was a part of the leadership team to the University of Exemplary Mentoring (UCEM), a program funded by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. I create a welcoming and inclusive environment within CMS by facilitating open dialogues on challenging topics and implementing peer mentors for incoming students.  Alongside these responsibilities, I teach Introduction of Oceanography, the Geologic History of Florida and Oceanography for the New Blue Economy. In 2019, I spearheaded CMS’ first NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) supplement program. This initiative paved the way for Making Waves REU, an NSF REU site award. Making Waves REU is designed to provide an immersive ocean science REU for students with different social, cultural, and academic backgrounds. My journey, from being a bilingual first-generation Latina to earning a Ph.D. as a non-traditional student, has shaped my commitment to fostering inclusivity in Marine Science.