Hi Everyone!

I am Meghan Zulian, a Ph.D. candidate at the University of California, Davis’ Bodega Marine Laboratory, where I work alongside other fabulous scientists in the Ocean Climate Lab studying past and present climate change in coastal environments. I also closely collaborate with the wonderful folks of the UC Davis Office for Public Scholarship and Engagement who work on various aspects of community-engaged scholarship. My multidisciplinary research and methodologies reflect my conviction that academic and community strengths, resources, and knowledge are equally crucial for developing equitable and sustainable climate

My marine research investigates the impacts of climate stressors (ocean acidification, hypoxia, warming) on various culturally, ecologically, and economically important benthic invertebrates. My research process includes iterative feedback and, where possible, collaborations with fishermen, shellfish growers, state, and marine resource managers, policymakers, and conservation scientists. Their feedback informs the conceptualization, methods, and directions of my work; and keeps me attuned to what my work can inform within the broader context they operate in.

Though my background is in Geology and Marine Science, I became quite curious about institutional support for community-engaged graduate scholars during my tenure as one of the inaugural Public Scholars for the Future. I am now conducting a national synthesis on community-engaged graduate programs.

Outside of my dissertation research, I have pursued numerous other roles that align with my values and interests. I served as a Volunteer Community Scientist through the AGU Thriving Earth Exchange, where I worked with other scientists and Community Leads in North Andros, Bahamas, to produce a policy brief and community lecture series outlining the potential impacts of a proposed limestone mining operation. I have also served as Undergraduate Lead Mentor for the Coastal & Marine Science Institute; Chair for the Ecological Society America Communication & Engagement Section; and dabbled in freeflance science writing.

I am happy to talk about any aspects of who I am and what I do. Please reach out!