People

I am periodically looking for undergraduate research assistants at the University of Miami. If you are interested, please feel free to get in touch through my email at haoluan.wang@miami.edu.

Current undergraduate research assistants:

Filippo Bora [LinkedIn]

I am from Civitanova Marche, Italy, and am majoring in marine biology/ecology with a minor in sustainable business. After graduating from college, my aspiration is to tackle environmental and social issues within a corporation or non-governmental organization. My biggest passions include traveling, triathlon, scuba diving, and, overall, establishing a strong relationship with the nature around me. [Journal Article]

Leanna Navo [LinkedIn]

I was lucky to be raised in the beautiful state of Colorado! Growing up surrounded by all of Colorado’s glory cemented my passion for the environment. I’m triple-majoring in Ecosystem Science & Policy, Geography & Sustainable Development, and Spanish. My aspiration is to tackle global environmental problems at the source: major corporations, whether that means I’m a consultant or a sustainability director. I love music, spending time in lush nature, and adventures with my best friends. [UM News]

Sally Work [LinkedIn]

I am from Arlington, VA, and I’m triple-majoring in International Studies, Political Science, and Geography & Sustainable Development, with a minor in Spanish. I’m particularly passionate about the intersection of climate change and geopolitical security. After graduation, I hope to work in public service or policy to advance sustainable development in pursuit of a more globally secure future. In my free time, I enjoy training for triathlons, going to the beach, and painting!

Undergraduate research assistants alumni:

Sammy Brown [LinkedIn]

I’m from Germantown, Maryland, and I’m triple-majoring in Marine Affairs, Political Science, and Geography and Sustainable Development. I’ve always loved the water and nature, which is why I care so much about conservation and protecting coastal ecosystems. After graduation, I’d love to delve into conservation work and focus on protecting coastal ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices. In my free time, I enjoy paddleboarding and scuba diving!

Charlotte Fernandez-Hoffman [LinkedIn]

Originally from New York, I graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelor of Arts in Ecosystem Science & Policy as well as Geography & Sustainable Development. I am now applying my knowledge as a research assistant to develop a survey instrument for data collection on South Miami households’ preferences for climate adaptation strategies. Outside of class, I am very active and enjoy scuba diving, running, and playing tennis.

Alicia Gonzalez

I was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and I am double-majoring in Ecosystem Science and Policy and Geography and Sustainable Development. I am very passionate about sustainable cities, including urban planning, sustainable transportation, and other ways to make Miami a better place to live for everyone. Some of my favorite things to do include traveling, going to the beach for a whole day, and trying new foods.

Leah Jones [LinkedIn]

I am from Jacksonville, Florida, majoring in International Studies and double-minoring in Africana Studies and Geography and Sustainable Development. I am a Research Assistant studying Climate Gentrification and Adaptation in Miami and the Secretary of the African Student’s Union. My passions/interests include Environmental Justice, Pan-Africanism, Womanism and Art. In my free time, I enjoy reading, painting, and makeup artistry.

Emma Miller [LinkedIn]

I graduated in May 2023 from the University of Miami with a B.S. in Ecosystem Science & Policy and a B.A. in Spanish with minors in Geospatial Technology, Biology, and Math. I am originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, and I have grown up enjoying nature and being outside. My professional aspirations are related to conservation, specifically ecological monitoring and data analysis through GIS. Some of my favorite activities include hiking, bird watching, board games/puzzles, and playing racquetball/tennis.

Sophia Plancich [LinkedIn]

I am from Fairfax, Virginia, double-majoring in Geography and Sustainable Development & Ecosystem Science and Policy, with double minors in International Studies & Arts. I am interested in environmental conservation and love to paint in my free time. [UM News] [Book Chapter]

Maximilian Wassmer [LinkedIn]

I am from Brooklyn, New York, and am double-majoring in Marine Affairs and International Studies. I am very interested in Maritime law and policy and how different political systems and policies can have subsequent impacts on a nation’s ability to implement environmental and sustainable measures. After graduation, I would like to continue my studies in Law school, specializing in Environmental Law, and work as an environmental consultant or advisor for large NGOs and other Maritime Law firms. My biggest passions are traveling, playing soccer, and cooking.