Dr. Janelle M. Hrycik earned her Ph.D. in Biological Oceanography from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia and her B.Sc. in Marine Biology from Long Island University – Southampton College. Dr. Hrycik’s most recent research applies physics to learn more about transport in aquatic biological systems, using a new technology to empirically quantify aquatic dispersal. These measurements are employed to test dispersal results provided by conventional technologies, such as numerical models. Her research has applications to the sustainable management of commercially valuable and (or) endangered species, the mitigation of the threat of invasive species, the prediction of species response to climate change, and the evaluation of contaminants, such as microplastics, oil, and wastewater.

As an interdisciplinary scientist and educator, Dr. Hrycik’s experience includes interpreting scientific information for the general public, teaching a variety of university courses among the Biological Sciences and Sustainability, as well as advising independent research projects and student-community partnerships. Dr. Hrycik aims to advance the skills her students will need to cultivate meaningful questions, to critically evaluate information, and to analyze and synthesize that information while developing their own conclusions. She is a proponent of science communication and of bridging the gap between the natural and social sciences, believing that it is vital to connect the science behind environmental issues with their socio-economic context.

In her free time, Dr. Hrycik enjoys reading new books, traveling to new places, and spending time with her pug, Travis.