Welcome! I'm Molly M. James, a PhD student in Dr. James O'Donnell's lab in the Department of Marine Sciences at the University of Connecticut. I study coastal physical oceanography, and my dissertation investigates interactions between creeks and grasses within tidal salt marshes. I received my Bachelors of Arts in Physics with a minor in Mathematics from Vassar College.
I am interested in the impact of the ocean on people and vice versa, specifically through the lens of physics. Across the globe, humans intimately engage with the ocean whether recreational, livelihood, commerce, or travel. Because of this deep connection, we need to better understand how oceans and coastal communities interact in the face of climate change.
Curriculum Vitae available on request via email: molly(dot)james(at)uconn(dot)edu
In the United Nations Ocean Decade, it is important to keep in mind its relevance to the people of the world...
Earth is more than 70% covered by the ocean.
Nearly 40% of the world's population live within 100 km (62 miles) of the coast.
Almost 2/3 of the world's cities with populations of over five million are located in areas at risk of sea level rise.
These statistics and plenty more raise concern for the global community, as outlined by the UN Sustainable Development Goal 14: "Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development." (The Ocean Conference, United Nations).