Contact:
Biography:
Sophia Palmieri is the Community Engagement Specialist for Mote Marine Laboratory’s Upper Keys locations, where she supports outreach, education, and public engagement surrounding coral reef restoration and marine conservation efforts in the Florida Keys. Through community programs, social media, events, and hands-on experiences both on land and underwater, she helps connect residents and visitors alike to the importance of protecting Florida’s Coral Reef.
Originally from North Carolina, Sophia earned her degree in Biology and Environmental Studies with a minor in Marine Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her background includes marine science education, aquarium animal care, scientific research, and dive operations in both California and Florida. From teaching underwater robotics and marine ecology on Catalina Island to conducting honors research on juvenile horseshoe crabs in North Carolina estuaries, her work has consistently centered around making marine science engaging, accessible, and inspiring for others. Outside of Mote, Sophia volunteers with the aquarium at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where she assists with aquarium care and public education focused on Florida Keys marine life and conservation. Both at work and in her free time, Sophia is passionate about helping people build meaningful connections with the ocean and inspiring the next generation of ocean stewards to protect and preserve marine ecosystems for the future.
Education:
B.S. Biology and Environmental Studies with a minor in Marine Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.