Joseph Zotolli
M.S. Candidate Oceanography
Joseph Langan
Ph. D. Candidate Oceanography
Christopher Orphanides
Ph.D. Candidate Oceanography
Corinne Truesdale
M.S. Candidate Oceanography
Michael (Conor) McManus
Ph.D. Candidate Oceanography
Jason McNamee
Ph.D. Candidate Oceanography
Anna Malek
Ph.D. Oceanography
amalek@gso.uri.edu
Anna's dissertation research utilizes a collaborative approach to investigate the spatial distributions, population structures, and interactions of marine fish and invertebrates to inform ecosystem-based marine spatial planning in Rhode Island’s coastal waters. Her multidisciplinary studies combine trawl surveys, underwater videography, and acoustic mapping to understand the basis of fish-habitat relationships on the inner continental shelf. She also employs stomach content and stable isotope analysis to investigate the functional role of different habitat types and the importance of benthic-pelagic coupling in supporting fish production. Anna works closely with the commercial fishing industry to develop effective sampling protocols and carry out robust field research.
Anna also serves as the Field Coordinator for the Southern New England Cooperative Ventless Trap Survey, which employs commercial lobster fishing vessels to assess the distribution and population structure of the American lobster (Homarus americanus) in Rhode Island and Block Island Sounds. The ultimate goal of this project to to help guide the location of offshore windfarm development and provide a baseline against which to measure the impacts of climate change.