Dedicated Advocate for Diversity in Geosciences
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Alexandra Padilla (she/her/ella) is a Research Associate and Program Manager for ADVANCEing FieldSafety at the University of Colorado Boulder. Originally from Maryland, she later moved to Puerto Rico, where she earned a B.S. in mechanical engineering with a minor in applied mathematics from the University of Puerto Rico – Mayaguez. Her passion for environmental sciences led her to complete a Ph.D. in ocean engineering at the University of New Hampshire, focusing on the physical properties of gas bubbles in the ocean to enhance gas flux estimates. While at UNH, she co-led initiatives aimed at improving diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), including creating a resource map for underrepresented minorities. During her postdoctoral work at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, she received the URGE (Unlearning Racism in the Geosciences) Postdoctoral Extension, collaborating with DEI leaders to advance inclusive practices within the institution. Alexandra is dedicated to supporting early-career researchers and underrepresented minorities in the geosciences by providing essential resources and fostering a welcoming community.