Meet Two MacArthur 'Genius Grant' Scientists

Sea Levels

Andrea Dutton, a geologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, investigates ancient sea levels to understand current oceanic changes. Her research focuses on fossil corals from the last interglacial period, around 125,000 years ago, when Earth was warmer and sea levels were significantly higher. By studying these ancient conditions, Andrea provides insights into potential future scenarios as ice sheets melt and sea levels rise 1. She recounts a pivotal discovery in the Seychelles, where fossil corals found at high elevations indicated significant Antarctic ice melt:

So when we got this result in the Seychelles, I did walk away from the outcrop and I sat down on the beach and I thought to myself, you know what? People are not going to like this.

--- Andrea Dutton

This revelation underscores the urgency of addressing climate change impacts on global sea levels.

   

Community Conservation

Stacy Jupiter, the Melanesia Director with the Wildlife Conservation Society, integrates community values into conservation efforts in the Pacific region. Living in Fiji, she emphasizes the importance of balancing environmental protection with the needs of local communities, ensuring sustainable livelihoods and access to resources 2. Her innovative approach includes organizing engaging activities like flash mobs to raise awareness about marine conservation. Stacy's efforts highlight the importance of community involvement in environmental initiatives:

What you're watching is a YouTube clip of 125 people disco dancing in the streets of Suva.

--- Emily Kwong

Through creative outreach, she fosters a collaborative spirit in conservation, making science accessible and fun.