Photo Credit: Matt Perko / UCSB
Congratulations
Michelle Guan
Marine Science Institute Administration
Benjamin Bray, Halle Brown, Maia Espinoza, Maya Rivera
Caselle Lab
Lauren Buyalos, Erick Morales Oyola
Miller Lab
Brandon Aoki, Ethan Bergen, Amelia Fuentes, Katrina Ortman
The Research Experience & Education Facility (REEF)
Thank you to all the incredible students who have poured their energy, passion, and dedication into our laboratories. Thank you for your hard work and unwavering support. We wish you the very best in your next chapters of your lives. Whatever dreams you choose to follow, we have no doubt you’ll achieve amazing things.
MSI Administration
We are truly grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and enthusiasm that our student employees bring to the Marine Science Institute administration. Their hard work and commitment play an important role in supporting our programs and community.
Michelle Guan
Michelle graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a degree in Economics and Accounting. During her two years as a student assistant in the Marine Science Institute's Administration Personnel office, she gained valuable professional experience while supporting the day-to-day operations of MSI. Known for her dedication, reliability, and positive attitude, Michelle became a valued member of the team and contributed greatly to the institute's administrative efforts. Following graduation, she began an exciting new chapter in Los Angeles, where she is working in audit while pursuing her CPA certification.
"I am grateful for the past two years I spent as a student assistant in the Personnel Department, where I gained my first experience in a professional office environment and worked alongside a welcoming and supportive team."
We are proud of all she has accomplished and look forward to seeing all that she achieves in the future.
Caselle Lab
The Caselle Lab, led by Jenn Caselle, studies marine ecosystems—especially kelp forests and coastal reefs. The lab focuses on how these communities change over time, how marine species interact and move, and how Marine Protected Areas affect ecosystem health, using long-term field surveys and ecological modeling to inform conservation and fisheries management. Their research supports conservation and management efforts and is conducted within a collaborative and interdisciplinary scientific environment.
Benjamin Bray
Ben graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a Bachelor’s degree in Data Science and Environmental Studies. Since his junior year, Ben was a valued member of the Caselle Lab, contributing to the Kelp Forest Restoration Project and supporting research focused on kelp forest ecosystems, climate vulnerability, and marine conservation.
During his time at UCSB, Ben combined his passion for environmental stewardship with strong technical expertise in data science and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Beyond his research in the Caselle Lab, he gained hands-on experience through conservation, field research, consulting, and environmental nonprofit work, including roles with More Mesa Preservation Coalition, Channel Islands Expeditions, and 180 Degrees Consulting.
After graduation, Ben will be diving for PISCO and working for an environmental nonprofit in Santa Barbara. This fall, he plans to apply to graduate programs in aquatic and fishery sciences while continuing his fieldwork and research experience.
"I am grateful to the MSI and Caselle lab community for the incredible experiences, people, and work that we have been able to accomplish."
We wish Ben continued success as he pursues graduate studies and future research opportunities.
Halle Brown
Halle graduated with a B.S. from the Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology (EEMB) Department at University of California, Santa Barbara.
Halle joined the Caselle Lab in summer 2024 and has since focused on researching herbivory by tropical reef fishes, with the goal of better understanding their role in coral recovery. This summer, she will join the Caselle Lab’s scientific dive team, conducting SCUBA surveys with PISCO to monitor kelp forests along the Santa Barbara Channel.
“I’m so grateful to the Caselle Lab for the support they’ve given me in improving my research and scientific communication skills. It has been a great environment to spend time in these past two years, and has offered unique opportunities to learn about both tropical and temperate reef ecology. I’m looking forward to continued collaboration with them this summer!”
We congratulate Halle on this milestone achievement and wish her continued success in her future endeavors.
Maia Espinoza
Maia graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Science in Aquatic Biology. She had been a member of the Caselle Lab since 2023, contributing to a variety of research and field-based projects over the past three years.
Her work included analyzing Baited Remote Underwater Videos (BRUVs), serving as a scientific diving intern for the MPA monitoring team, and completing a senior thesis project investigating how fishing influences the depth distribution of rocky reef fishes at Anacapa Island.
"I am beyond grateful to have spent my time at UCSB with such a welcoming and encouraging team. The Caselle Lab has taught me so much about working hands-on as a marine scientist both in the lab and out in the field. More than anything, being part of the Caselle Lab has given me the confidence to pursue a future in marine science and made me feel that this is the field where I truly belong. Thank you everyone!!"
After graduation, Maia will continue her studies as a Master's student at Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, where she will be advised by Dr. Scott Hamilton of the Ichthyology Lab.
We are incredibly proud of Maia’s accomplishments and grateful for the enthusiasm, dedication, and curiosity she brought to the Caselle Lab. We wish her every success as she begins this exciting next chapter in marine science.
Maya Rivera
Maya earned her Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies from University of California, Santa Barbara — an incredible milestone and a proud moment for our community.
For the past three years, Maya was an integral part as an intern in the Caselle Lab at the Marine Science Institute at UC Santa Barbara, where she built an impressive foundation in marine and environmental research. Through hands-on data collection and analytical work in R programming, she strengthened both her scientific expertise and her ability to think critically about complex ecological challenges.
" I owe a great deal of gratitude to my mentors, Dr. Jenn Caselle and Peter Carlson of the Caselle Lab, for their exceptional mentorship, scientific guidance, and continued investment in my development as a researcher."
After graduation, Maia will continue her studies as a Master's student at Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, where she will be advised by Dr. Scott Hamilton of the Ichthyology Lab.
We celebrated Maya’s achievements and looked forward to seeing the impact she would make in graduate school and the conservation field. Her dedication, curiosity, and commitment to environmental stewardship have left a lasting impression on the MSI community, and we wish her continued success in the next chapter of her journey.
Miller Lab
The Miller Lab at UCSB investigates the ecology and biodiversity of coastal marine ecosystems, especially giant kelp forests. Led by Bob Miller, the lab combines long-term ecological monitoring, field research, and data-driven approaches to understand how environmental change affects marine communities and biodiversity, with applications to conservation and ecosystem management.
Lauren Buyalos
Lauren graduated with honors from UC Santa Barbara’s Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology with a Bachelor of Science in Aquatic Biology.
Since joining the Marine Science Institute in 2025, Lauren worked as a Laboratory and Scientific Diving Intern in the Miller Lab, contributing to kelp forest ecological research through both fieldwork and scientific diving. She supported the Algae Traits Project through algae and invertebrate identification, ecological surveys, and long-term monitoring efforts in the Santa Barbara Channel. Lauren also supported PhD student Inez Mangino’s research on localized nitrogen cycling, examining how epifaunal invertebrate excretion fuels macroalgal growth.
Since 2024, Lauren served as an FAA-certified drone pilot with SharkEye, a project of the Benioff Ocean Science Laboratory. Through aerial surveys along the Santa Barbara coastline, she helped detect and monitor great white sharks while also contributing to data analysis, community outreach, and efforts to promote safe coexistence between people and marine wildlife.
Lauren’s passion for marine science extended beyond the field and laboratory. As co-founder of FLOW (Facilitating Laboratory Optimization and Waste), she helped improve sustainability across UCSB research spaces by expanding recycling infrastructure and creating lab-specific educational resources. She rolled out UCSB’s first lab-specific recycling signage across more than 11 campus buildings and helped divert over 430 pounds of laboratory plastics toward reuse and recycling initiatives.
In Fall 2025, Lauren studied abroad at the University of Queensland in Australia, where she conducted research on soil organic carbon in subtropical ecosystems and investigated foraminifera species diversity across coral reef habitats within the Great Barrier Reef.
Throughout her undergraduate career, Lauren has pursued a wide range of research, conservation, and education experiences, including coral reef research in Moorea, shark and ray fieldwork in Florida, marine science education at UCSB’s teaching aquarium, wildlife rehabilitation with the Channel Islands Marine & Wildlife Institute, and citizen science monitoring of California’s kelp forests.
Lauren plans to continue her work with the Miller Lab this summer while applying to graduate programs, with the goal of pursuing a career in marine community ecology and marine conservation research.
I’m so grateful for the wide variety of marine science opportunities at UCSB and how supportive the faculty has been. Special thanks to the Miller Lab and the Benioff Ocean Science Laboratory for supporting my growth as a scientist as it has been a dream come true to build my knowledge and fieldwork experience here.
Congratulations, Lauren! We are excited to see where your passion for marine science takes you next.
Erick Morales Oyola
Originally from Florida, Erick’s journey into marine science was shaped by a deep curiosity for coral reef and kelp forest ecosystems, along with a strong passion for marine conservation. Throughout his time at UCSB, he immersed himself in hands-on, field-based learning—working across coastal habitats from Santa Barbara to the Channel Islands.
As part of the Miller Lab since his freshman year, Erick contributed to marine fieldwork, scientific diving, image analysis, and biodiversity surveys of rocky reefs and intertidal ecosystems. His experience spanned multiple research groups, including work in the Caselle Lab and the Crab Lab, as well as field research in Moorea with the Burkepile Lab.
A certified Part 107 drone pilot, Erick also pioneered drone-based remote sensing applications in coastal ecosystems—using aerial imagery, ArcGIS, and machine learning to study habitats such as salt marshes and dune systems. His work bridged marine biology, data science, and conservation technology, including monitoring shorebirds, invertebrates, and coastal change through innovative aerial surveys.
Beyond research, Erick contributed to undergraduate teaching, mentoring programs, and outreach initiatives such as DIVErsity in Diving and the FUERTE Fellowship, while also helping lead field courses and coastal monitoring efforts with organizations like Reef Check Foundation and the Surfrider Foundation.
After graduation, Erick will continue at UCSB to begin his PhD in Marine Science in the Burkepile Lab, where he will focus on land–sea connections and use remote sensing to better understand how coral reefs respond to environmental disturbance.
I’m really grateful for the Miller Lab and MSI community for giving me such meaningful, and fun, hands-on experience in marine science!
As he moves into the next chapter of his academic journey, Erick carries forward a strong blend of field expertise, technical skill, and scientific curiosity—laying the foundation for a bright and impactful future in marine science research.
Warm congratulations, Erick!
The REEF
The REEF is UCSB’s teaching aquarium. Equipped with state-of-the-art touch tanks and aquaria, it provides an “Ocean View of the World” for students in Southern California and beyond.
Brandon Aoki
Brandon graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Science in Aquatic Biology and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication. He joined The REEF in 2025 as a Volunteer Informal Science Educator and REEF Artist. At The REEF, he combined his passion for marine science, education, and creative outreach. Through his work, Brandon helped engage the public in ocean conservation and foster meaningful connections between science and the community.
The REEF has been amazing at equipping me not only with knowledge but also with the ability to learn and teach in a way that's personal and impactful. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to live out a small part of my dream, sharing my love of the ocean with others
After graduation, Brandon plans to begin his career in marketing, using his communication skills to help organizations share their stories and expand their impact. Looking ahead, he hopes to work with aquariums and ocean-related organizations, helping them reach audiences around the world while inspiring greater appreciation and stewardship of marine ecosystems.
Brandon Aoki! Anytime Brandon shows up for a shift I know it's gonna be a great day! Brandon has that SPARK-that passion of a Life-Learner! Doesn't matter what's on the agenda for the day-Working with kids, shucking mussels, or feeding the animals. He's ALL IN! That spark also ignites and inspires other REEFers, and ME! Brandon is also a part of The REEF Art Team, and has added his beautiful visions of his love for the Ocean into The REEF and was instrumental in creating compelling images as part of The REEFund Campaign. Given his amazing talent and drive, I have no doubt that Brandon will be writing his own ticket on his journey, and will continue to inspire others! Brandon Aoki, I can't thank you enough for all you have brought to The REEF. You will be missed!
—Scott Simon, The REEF Director
Ethan Bergen
Ethan graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Science in Aquatic Biology. He joined The REEF in 2025 as a Volunteer Informal Science Educator, where he shared his passion for marine science with visitors and helped foster a greater understanding of aquatic ecosystems through public engagement and education.
Through his time at The REEF, Ethan gained valuable experience communicating scientific concepts to diverse audiences while contributing to the organization's educational mission. Looking ahead, he plans to explore graduate school opportunities and pursue short-term research positions to further develop his skills and gain hands-on experience in the field of aquatic biology.
During my time at the REEF I have learned more about marine biology and our local aquatic environment than any of my classes. Getting to know a wide variety of kids/adults and show them why they should care about our oceans has always been the most enjoyable part of my time at the REEF.
Ethan Bergen! I'm sure the entire staff at The REEF will share this sentiment-Ethan shorely you will be missed! It has been an absolute pleasure having Ethan at The REEF. His laid back attitude was a GREAT asset all around, but especially with the K-12 kids! He was always the super cool dude to have on programs. And, I REALLY enjoyed getting to know him better and watch him work with the kids in our very first "Summer's Cool @ The REEF" Summer camp. I appreciate his kind words and am STOKED he got so much out of The REEF. He certainly gave us a lot to be thankful for. Best Fishes to you on the next leg of your journey!
—Scott Simon, The REEF Director
Amelia Fuentes
Amelia graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Science in Aquatic Biology. She joined The REEF in 2022 and served as a Special Systems and Shark Aquarist, gaining extensive hands-on experience caring for marine animals and maintaining aquarium systems. Throughout her time at The REEF, Amelia developed both her technical expertise and her passion for marine science education while working alongside a community of students dedicated to ocean conservation and STEM outreach.
The REEF became an integral part of Amelia’s college experience. Having worked there since the fall quarter of her freshman year, she found invaluable opportunities to grow, learn, and connect with others who shared her enthusiasm for marine life. Growing up in a land-locked state, aquariums were her primary connection to the ocean, making her role at The REEF a meaningful full-circle experience that deepened her appreciation for marine ecosystems and public engagement.
The REEF has been an integral part of my college experience. I've been working here since the fall quarter of my freshman year! I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to grow & learn in such a hands-on environment with students that are so passionate about the ocean & STEM education. Growing up in a land-locked state, aquariums were the main way i could connect with marine life, so working at The REEF has been a major full-circle moment for me.
Amelia Fuentes! It's been...SWELL!
While Amelia completed her degree at the end of Winter Quarter, she is included in the Class of 2026 REEFers. Amelia has been with The REEF since her beginnings here at UCSB. She began as a Volunteer Informal Science Educator and left as the Shark and Special Systems Aquarist. While she hails from Knoxville, TN, Amelia's love for all things marine was VERY clear from day one. And, her affinity for everything elasmobranch, as well as her attention to detail, really made her a wonderful individual to work with! Once trained in the ways of the Special Systems Aquarist, Amelia became an indispensable asset to The REEF. A critical component of the Special Systems position is running and maintaining our Marine Heat Wave (MHW) System. This system was designed in collaboration with The Hofmann Lab and allows the lab to conduct MHW research IN The REEF, and is used to educate visitors about current, cutting-edge research being conducted in the Hofmann Lab. In this position, Amelia trained incoming graduate students on how to use the system. Those were some pretty big shoes she wore! I have enjoyed watching Amelia grow throughout her time at The REEF and look forward to watching the paths she chooses on her Journey beyond her days at The REEF!
— Scott Simon, The REEF Director
Katrina Ortman
Katrina graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry–Molecular Biology and a minor in Spanish. She joined The REEF in 2024 as a Volunteer Informal Science Educator, where she developed her skills in science communication, public engagement, and environmental education. Through her work at The REEF, Katrina gained a deeper appreciation for marine biology and learned the value of observing and understanding the natural world.
The REEF taught me so much about working with people, marine biology, and how to observe the world around me. My favorite memory is holding a live abalone for the first time! It was such a fun three years!
Reflecting on her time at The REEF, Katrina credits the experience with teaching her not only about marine life but also about connecting with people through science. One of her favorite memories was holding a live abalone for the first time, an experience that sparked excitement and curiosity about the incredible diversity of marine organisms. Her time at The REEF provided memorable hands-on learning opportunities and meaningful connections that enriched her college experience.
Katrina Ortman, aka KatFish! Like the hurricane, bearing the same name, she's a force to be reckoned with. She has forged her own path through the UCSB academic maze and has rocked it! Her time at The REEF has been amazing. Her knowledge, passion and research experience has made her a remarkable REEFer. As an Informal Science Educator, she has inspired many of our NextGen K-12s in wonderful ways! Stoked to she is off on the leg of her Journey at Rice University. Truly a Kat-5 individual! Best Fishes for Future Successes!
— Scott Simon, The REEF Director