Student Blogs & Vignettes

Ryan Simonson

Ryan Simonson - USF CMS graduate student

Ryan Simonson - USF CMS graduate student 

About my research

I am currently studying Physical Oceanography under Dr. Don Chambers and am assisting in the mapping of Global Mean Sea Level (MSL). Specifically I am using satellite altimetry data to identify historical trends, current levels, and make future projections for the MSL. I hope to be able to provide relevant analysis that enables sustainable economic and social development along existing coastal areas and predicts future coastal areas given existing and projected environmental changes.

Why USFCMS?

I chose to study at USF St. Pete because it is the preminent school for oceanographic studies in the Gulf of Mexico. The facility is located adjacent to my desired geographic practice area and also features a world renown faculty. The existing relationships between USGS, NASA, and USF fit perfectly into my anticipated field and give me a great jumping off point for future employment.