Kaley Mudd

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

I aim to better understand ocean surface properties and their implications for coastal environments. I strive to leverage and validate experimental observational technologies to enhance our understanding of impactful coastal processes such as coastal erosion, sediment transport, and flooding, with the goal of detecting and mitigating their effects.

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

I studied Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences and Engineering Mechanics at UC San Diego where I completed thesis work related to ocean surface waves and air-sea interactions and worked as an assistant at the Coastal Data Information Program maintaining wave monitoring buoys. From there, I decided I wanted to further pursue research in academia and began as a graduate student at SIO.

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

My teachers and parents encouraged my early interest in robotics and environmental science. I grew up spending time in and around the ocean, which made it easy to transition into a field of study that includes seagoing field work.

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

I really enjoy spending time in the field. I think it's good to have a visual understanding of the ocean properties I spend so much time analyzing on a computer.

How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?

I am a member of the Lead Scientist's lab.

What other jobs led you to your current career?

My journey to becoming a Ph.D. student in Applied Ocean Science has been shaped by diverse roles, including lifeguard, Marine Science Instructor, and Undergraduate Assistant at the Coastal Data Information Program, where I gained hands-on field experience with wave buoys. An internship at Leidos further strengthened my programming and data automation skills. These experiences, from fieldwork to science communication, ultimately guided me toward a career in ocean science focused on ocean surface properties and coastal resilience.

What are your degrees and certifications?

Batchelor of Science in Oceanic and Atmospheric Science - University of California, San Diego

What are your hobbies?

I love doing anything outside: rock climbing, mountain biking, running, swimming, scuba diving, surfing, hiking. I also love to cook and crochet!

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

If you want a career in ocean science, develop skills beyond traditional coursework, like programming, data analysis, and engineering. Embrace fieldwork opportunities, as hands-on experience is invaluable. Be open to diverse roles, network with others in the field, seek mentors, and always ask questions.