Meet The Team

Dr. Stephen Tomasetti runs the coastal environmental science lab at UMES and loves supporting students in science.

Alison Novara is interested in coastal ecology, specifically examining the impacts of climate change on our living coastal resources and applying this knowledge to influence policy. She currently researches climate impacts on bay scallops and other important shellfishery species. In her free time she likes to play tennis, go to the beach, and cook.

Katie Tanner has a passion for wetland ecosystem services and conservation. Her current research focuses on seagrass restoration and resilience at Assateague Island National Seashore. In her spare time, she loves kayaking, birding, and struggling to do the New York Times crossword.

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Glen Collins Jr. developed an interest in marine science through fishing with his dad and learning about careers in marine science at a young age. His current research focuses on using acoustic telemetry to track federally managed fish species across the Chesapeake Bay.

Litzia Galvan developed her interest in marine biology through both research experience and coursework. She aims to better understand how environmental factors influence marine invertebrates. She will contribute to a new project focused on bay scallop reproduction.

Sara Silika has a passion for coastal ecology, local waterways, and applied science. Her current research explores biogeochemical cycling of seagrasses in the coastal bays of Maryland. Outside of school, you can usually find her surfing, reading, or at a local farmers market.

Owen Skirtich is interested in fisheries science and aquaculture. For his current research, he examines the interactions of oyster aquaculture and seagrass. He enjoys playing ultimate frisbee on the beach in his free time.

​Naomi Dow has a strong interest in marine science, with a growing curiosity about the marine environment and its long-term sustainability. She aspires to become an environmental data analyst, using research and data to better understand and protect ocean ecosystems.

Eli Harmon-Ward enjoys fishing and learning about the environment. He is eager to apply his hobbies to research. As a lab member, he aims to gain research experience, expand his knowledge, and prepare for his next steps post graduation.

Jacob Serrano is interested in coral reef conservation and impacts to reef habitat. In his free time, he enjoys scuba diving, deepening his passion for ecosystems. He is gaining research experience in order to map his next steps post-graduation.

Anthony Taylor has fishers on both sides of his family and has found his calling in marine science. He is excited to be doing marine research at the college level, and looks forward to gaining experience.