Kathryn E L Smith, Ph.D.
Kathryn Smith is a Research Ecologist at the St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center. Her research focuses on the impact of coastal erosion hazards on wetland and estuarine ecosystems.
Dr. Kathryn Smith’s research focuses on linking geospatial and geophysical data to assess environmental change in coastal wetlands, estuaries, and barrier islands. Kathryn is responsible for leading efforts in geospatial data analysis procedures, examining the complex dynamics of coastal sedimentary processes, paired field and spatial modeling studies which assess the vulnerability of coastal ecosystems to storms and sea-level rise, and enhancing capabilities for paleoecological assessment of coastal habitats. In addition, Kathryn has maintained a teaching and graduate student advising role at the University of South Florida.
Professional Experience
Research Ecologist, U.S. Geological Survey, St. Petersburg Coastal & Marine Science Center, 2017 to present
Ecologist, U.S. Geological Survey, St. Petersburg Coastal & Marine Science Center, 2003 to 2017
Research Assistant, West Florida Research and Education Center, University of Florida, 1999 to 2002
Research Analyst, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 1996 to 1999
Education and Certifications
Ph.D. - Environmental Engineering (2013), University of Florida
M.S. - Wildlife Ecology and Conservation (2003), University of Florida
B.S. - Environmental Science (1999), University of Minnesota