������Ƶ

University of Miami
B.S. Marine Science & Biology
2025

Khrista received her B.S. in Marine Science and Biology from the University of Miami in 2025. Born in South Florida with Caribbean roots, she is motivated by her communities to understand and preserve the ocean. During her undergraduate time, she participated on a variety of projects which inspired her interest in interdisciplinary research. She focused on marine invertebrate physiology, especially relating to resilience to climate change. Khrista had questions about the physical environment of the ecosystems they live in, so she decided to pursue a Master’s in Oceanography here at ������Ƶ. Khrista is excited to bridge the gap between dynamic oceanography and the ecophysiology of marine organisms.

Khrista is also passionate about science communication to share her work with local communities. Outside of her research, she enjoys exploring new places, crafting, and looking under the microscope.

• Kay McMonigal

• Climate Sciences
• Marine Invertebrate Physiology
• Science Communication

Khrista is studying trends in the Agulhas Current over the past few decades. Shifts in transport by this strong western boundary current may affect heat transfer from the Indian to Atlantic Ocean. This project will provide a framework that may be incorporated into models to enhance our understanding of global ocean circulation. Changes in the Agulhas Current have implications on climate from regional to global scales.

• University of Washington Friday Harbor Labs - NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)
• NOAA Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary - NOAA Hollings Internship
• Marine Biological Laboratory - NSF REU