Isabel Flores

Tell us about your work/ research. What kinds of things do you do? 

I'm an undergraduate volunteer in a lab studying coral reef restoration via 3D printing. I cultivate "good" bacteria which convince coral larvae that our artificial structure is a nice place to live. Our lab is in California, but the reef we are working to restore is in Hawaii so we collaborate with scientists there who send us coral to study.

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

I've wanted to study the ocean for as long as I can remember. I'm passionate about conservation and restoration because I want future generations to have the opportunity to see the beautiful ecosystems of the ocean and fall in love with them like I did.

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

My coworkers in the coral reef engineering lab have been very influential to me, especially Dr. Natalie Levy. They all showed me what a future in research science might look like, and are still helping me figure out what path I want to take to get there.

What element of your work/ study do you think is the most fascinating?

I love the interdisciplinary nature of my lab and hearing about the research of my coworkers in fields other than my own such as engineering, materials science, biochemistry, and scientific diving. I also like feeding the coral. All of the individual polyps are so cute!

How did you get involved with the Nautilus Exploration Program?  

NASA Astronaut Dr. Yvonne Cagle worked with my mother on a design project and suggested I apply to STEMSEAS.

What other jobs led you to your current career? 

I'm just starting out on my career journey. So far as an undergrad I've volunteered in a lab working to create biodegradable polyurethane foam where I cultured bacteria and extracted DNA. Currently I'm volunteering in a coral reef restoration lab, where I cultivate the "good" bacteria that are part of a healthy reef ecosystem.

What are your degrees and certifications?

I'm currently in school for a combined BS/BA in Marine Biology and Linguistics - University of California, San Diego graduating in 2024

What are your hobbies?

I love crocheting—especially making plush sea animals! I've been teaching myself how to bake, and my roommates keep asking me for more blueberry muffins.

What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours? 

My career is just starting, but so far my experience has been that a lot of research is statistical analysis and data visualization! I used to be hesitant about math, but seeing how crucial statistics is to research has swayed me and now I enjoy it.