By: Carlyn Scott, Science Communications Manager
IMAGE ABOVE: López Figueroa is the first USF student to receive the prestigious Margaret A. Davidson Fellowship from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Office of Coastal Management.
Natalia López Figueroa is a proud product of Puerto Rico’s public education system. Born and raised in Bayamón, Puerto Rico — known as the "City of the Sciences" for its educational attractions that focus on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) — she completed preschool through college on the island before traveling to the mainland to earn her master’s degree from Hampton University and doctorate from USF. She attends the Spring 2025 commencement ceremony this week to celebrate these achievements.
López Figueroa was drawn to the USF College of Marine Science by its proximity to the Gulf, connections to the St. Pete Innovation District, and strong support for students.
During her time at USF, López Figueroa grew into a professional and leader in coastal management and ecology. She is the first USF student (and first Puerto Rican) to receive the prestigious Margaret A. Davidson Fellowship from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Office of Coastal Management. As a NOAA fellow, she was assigned to the Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, where she conducted pioneering research on the ecology of upside-down jellyfish and their potential as bioindicators of nutrient enrichment in coastal ecosystems.
IMAGE ABOVE: As a NOAA fellow, she worked in Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, where she conducted pioneering research on the ecology of upside-down jellyfish.
Other awards received by López Figueroa include a scholarship from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, the Dorothy L. Morgan Scholarship in Marine Science from USF Women in Leadership and Philanthropy, the Norman Blake Endowed Fellowship in Marine Science from the USF College of Marine Science, the South Florida Explorers Club chapter research grant, and the Florida Education Foundation McKnight Dissertation Fellowship.
“USF gave me the space to grow not only as a scientist but also as a leader in my field,” she said. "Being a USF student opened doors to opportunities I never imagined, thanks to the network of professionals and experts at the College of Marine Science. It provided me with the skills and knowledge to not only become an oceanographer but also to feel confident in my abilities in the field.”
Beyond her academic and research achievements, López Figueroa is a passionate mentor and educator. She served as an assistant coordinator for two consecutive years for the Making Waves Research Experience for Undergraduates, a program funded by the National Science Foundation’s Division of Ocean Sciences, which seeks to give undergraduate students hands-on learning experiences. In this role, she mentored students from across the United States, including students from U.S. territories.
"Natalia is a perfect example of our well-rounded students at the College of Marine Science,” said Pamela Hallock Muller, a USF Distinguished University Professor and López Figueroa’s major advisor. “She excels inside and outside the classroom as an extraordinary researcher, leader in her field, and mentor to future scientists. I am incredibly proud of her work ethic and look forward to watching her continue to grow as a scientist and professional.”
López Figueroa will be working with the CMS Making Waves REU after graduation and is planning on continuing her research in an academic setting.