Research Data Specialist / Senior Product Manager, University of California Office of the President, Oakland, CA, USA

AGU embraces the global community and welcomes leaders representing various identities, voices, and perspectives. List any identities, voices, and perspectives you would bring, including but not limited to nationality, regional representations, racial and ethnic backgrounds, and anything else you feel comfortable sharing.

I bring a diverse set of identities and perspectives to AGU, enriched by my involvement in various EDI (Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Justice) initiatives. As a Research Data Specialist and part of the research staff, I am not an academic but focus on hands-on approaches and building tangible solutions for real-world problems. For instance, I am collaborating with Howard University on a funded project to apply data science solutions to the Flint Water crisis, working to support and empower affected communities through improved data analysis and accessibility.

My work spans multiple regions and cultures, including partnerships with international researchers and institutions, which deepens my understanding of global perspectives. This experience is complemented by my efforts with historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and my involvement in initiatives addressing environmental justice. These diverse experiences shape my commitment to promoting inclusivity and equity within the scientific community.

Through my roles, I strive to advocate for underrepresented voices, support emerging scientists, and advance equitable data practices, contributing to a more inclusive and impactful scientific discourse at AGU.

Volunteer experience that relates to this position:

I have experience in data science management, including serving as Chair of Data Stewardship at Earth Science Information Partners. I have directed Research Data Alliance (RDA)/Committee on Data (CODATA) Summer Data Science Schools and mentored pre-service STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) teachers from underserved communities through National Science Foundation Supporting Talent for Academic Recruitment (STAR). Additionally, I contribute to the United Nations’ Decade Data Coordination Committee and serve as a Technical Advisory Board Member for RDA and various interest groups, with roles on the RDA-US Steering Committee and the Board on Research Data and Information of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine highlighting my commitment to advancing research data initiatives.

Board members work together with other volunteer leaders and staff to play a key role in implementing AGU’s strategic plan. What aspects of the strategic plan do you see yourself contributing to the most? How would you work with others to advance AGU’s values, vision, mission, and goals?

AGU's commitment to fostering an inclusive scientific culture resonates deeply with my personal and professional values. I believe that a truly inclusive environment begins with open dialogue and active listening, an approach I've consistently championed throughout my career. My ongoing work with the Flint, Michigan, community on their decades-long water crisis exemplifies the power of direct engagement and the value of diverse perspectives in driving effective, equitable solutions. This experience aligns seamlessly with AGU's goal, as embracing a wide range of voices not only upholds ethical standards but also enriches research and strengthens our collective scientific endeavor.

Furthermore, AGU's focus on advancing science through innovative partnerships and collaboration complements my extensive experience working within and across international scientific organizations. I am eager to leverage my global network to foster cross-border collaborations and champion open science principles. By promoting the free flow of information and integrating diverse perspectives, I aim to accelerate scientific discovery, particularly in areas that rely on interdisciplinary synthesis. Through these efforts, I aspire to contribute to a more collaborative, effective, and inclusive scientific community.

Section affiliations:

Atmospheric Sciences; Education; Global Environmental Change; Informatics; Ocean Sciences; Science and Society