Highlighting the Spotlight on Scripps College: Jessica Sportelli

Highlighting the Spotlight on Scripps College: Jessica Sportelli

Jessica Sportelli, a marine biology graduate student at the University of California San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography, is making waves in her field. Her research, which focuses on the interactions between microbial life and surfactants in the ocean, has the potential to impact conservation laws and practices.

Growing up in Los Angeles, California, Jessica developed a passion for the ocean after becoming scuba certified in high school. This passion led her to pursue a master's degree in marine biology at UC San Diego, where she now works in the Marine Physical Laboratory under the supervision of John Hildebrand.

Jessica's research explores biogeochemical processes at the air-sea interface, including the role of microbes in ocean surface chemistry and the impact on gas exchange and climate-related phenomena. Her work sheds light on the complex dynamics of the ocean surface microlayer and its effects on marine ecosystems and atmospheric processes.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Jessica's research is her focus on killer whales in the North Atlantic. Specifically, she is aiming to describe the dialect of an unknown pod of killer whales and determine their migration patterns. This research is particularly relevant to the native Inuit people of Pond Inlet, Nunavut, Canada, who are concerned about the impact of killer whales on narwhal populations for food.

In addition to her research on killer whales, Jessica is also interested in mental health. She is applying and interviewing for jobs, and her ultimate goal is to make a difference in communities through her work.

Jessica's office is located in Ritter Hall at Scripps, where she works alongside her lab mates who are pursuing various projects. Jana Johnson, a prominent marine biologist, serves as a role model for Jessica.

As Jessica continues her research, she is hopeful that her findings will contribute to a better understanding of killer whales in the North Atlantic and have a positive impact on marine ecosystems and climate-related phenomena. To learn more about Jessica's research, listen to the attached recording of a killer whale call.

1. Jessica Sportelli's research in marine biology, particularly on killer whales, could influence conservation laws and practices.
2. Science, specifically marine biology, has been a significant part of Jessica's life since her passion for the ocean developed in Los Angeles.
3. Her master's degree in marine biology from UC San Diego gives Jessica a strong foundation in the field.
4. Jessica's current research focuses on biogeochemical processes at the air-sea interface, including the role of microbes.
5. The impact of her work could extend to climate-related phenomena, as it involves gas exchange and ocean surface chemistry.
6. The complex dynamics of the ocean surface microlayer are a central focus in her research.
7. The effect of Jessica's research on marine ecosystems and atmospheric processes is a topic worth exploring further.
8. Jessica's work on killer whales, specifically an unknown pod in the North Atlantic, holds potential relevance for the native Inuit people of Pond Inlet, Nunavut, Canada.
9. Her research aims to describe the dialect of this unknown pod and determine their migration patterns.
10. This information could help address the concerns of Inuit people about the impact of killer whales on narwhal populations for food.
11. Jessica's passion for mental health is also evident in her career aspirations.
12. She is actively seeking jobs that would allow her to make a difference in communities through her work.
13. Jana Johnson, a prominent marine biologist, serves as a role model for Jessica in her workplace-wellness and personal-growth journey.
14. The realm of mental-health is intertwined with Jessica's career goals, as she strives to contribute positively to communities.
15. Jessica's office is located in Ritter Hall at Scripps, where her work Gives her an opportunity to collaborate with her fellow researchers.
16. The field of environmental-science has provided Jessica with numerous opportunities to delve deeper into understanding marine ecosystems and their intricacies.
17. Jessica's research could have implications on mens-health, womens-health, and overall health-and-wellness, as marine ecosystems play a crucial role in maintaining the planet's health.
18. Parenting becomes easier with a healthier environment for future generations, and Jessica's research aids in preserving the earth for children and families.
19. In the realm of fitness-and-exercise, caring for the environment and promoting a balanced lifestyle contribute to overall mental-health and well-being.
20. Therapies-and-treatments for various mental-health issues often benefit from a connection with nature, hence Jessica's work aids in developing such connections.
21. Climate change impacts a myriad of factors, from food-and-drink production to home-and-garden maintenance, and Jessica's research offers insights to improve these.
22. Her research could lead to advancements in business, personal-finance, technology, relationships, and even the casino-and-gambling industry, as many sectors are affected by climate change.

Read also: