Angelica Rodriguez

I am a Research Scientist in the Sea Level and Ice Group at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory as well as the Project Applications Lead for the NASA Surface Water and Ocean Topography Mission. My research focuses on regional to nearshore ocean dynamics using in situ and remote observations, along with numerical models. Ultimately, I strive to support data-informed, equitable decision making that uplifts vulnerable communities through both basic and applied research relevant to coastal resiliency. Additionally, I am passionate about formal and informal climate change and interdisciplinary education and community engagement. My N-SLCT project will focus on ocean dynamics in the Pacific Ocean that influence coastal water level fluctuations along island shorelines from weekly to monthly time scales. The ultimate goal is to inform sea level forecasts that do not currently account for meso- and submesoscale sea level features. In order to address this gap in future forecasting efforts, we must first assess the historical data to determine the time and space scales of interest for each island location. To do this, we will leverage the 30 year record of nadir satellite altimetry and in situ water level sensors (i.e., tide gauges). This provides information on how the offshore ocean influences sea level at the tide gauge location. Employing the novel Surface Water and Ocean Topography Mission dataset in conjunction with more recent altimetry and tide gauge observations will allow us to assess how the sea level fluctuates across the islands away from the tide gauge point locations. Information on these spatially varying statistics will shed light on the governing dynamics (such as potential island trapped waves or eddy shedding), as well as what aspects need to be accounted for in future forecasts. This project will directly support N-SLCT's partnership with the United Nations' Rising Nations Initiative.