shawnee traylor
chemical oceanographer | environmental advocate | aspiring alpinist
I am a PhD student in the MIT-WHOI Joint Program working in the Biogeochemical Ocean Observation and Modeling Lab (BOOMLAB), where I am supported by the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program (NSF GRFP). My thesis work brings together my background in chemistry, environmental engineering, carbon sequestration, and water quality. Using a combination of autonomous platforms and traditional fieldwork, I study the ocean's role in regulating climate through the uptake of carbon dioxide. Understanding these natural processes may enable ocean-based climate solutions such as marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR).
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My research has taken me all over the world, from getting stuck in penguin traffic in Antarctica to diving over tropical corals in Panama. I completed my undergraduate degree at Columbia University (2018), where I gained essential hands-on research and teaching experience in urban air and water quality, geological and coastal carbon sequestration, and field engineering methods. I am passionate about implementing accessible observational systems to enable scientists and communities alike to engage with their natural environment. I believe strongly in the sharing my research outside of academia, and seek out opportunities to be engaged in public outreach and climate advocacy.
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my vision
My work is driven by the desire to contribute to three core ambitions:
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1. Developing nature-based solutions to mitigate and decelerate the impacts of climate change
2. Ensuring the preservation of pristine wilderness for future generations
3. Championing a future where safe, clean water access is not only a privilege, but a human right
my passion
My passions are interwoven with my work: sailing, climbing, hiking, skiing, and mountaineering.
Environmental stewardship starts with personal investment. Alongside my research, I dream of developing educational programs that combine science and outdoor recreation to empower people to engage with wild places respectfully and safely, fostering individual commitment to their preservation.
