ÌęÌęBIOGRAPHY:
Mercedes is a Panamanian coastal scientist and Ph.D. candidate in the Integrative and Conservation Biology program at the 166su, where she investigates soil biogeochemistry and coastal wetland resilience under the mentorship of Dr. Lisa Chambers. She began her academic path studying Marine Biology in Panama before moving to the United States to complete her bachelorâs degree in Coastal Environmental Science. She later earned a masterâs degree in Oceanography, conducting research on nutrient loading dynamics in Louisianaâs Barataria Bay and their broader ecological implications.
Her applied experience includes interning with the Ministry of Environment of Panama, where she contributed to national climate adaptation planning and the identification of vulnerable regions. Mercedes has also served as a climate negotiator for Panama at both COP28 in Dubai and COP29 in Azerbaijan, focusing on global adaptation efforts and youth engagement in international climate policy. She is active in academic and professional leadership, serving as social media coordinator for the Wetlands Club at 166su and as a chapter co-liaison for the Society of Women in Marine Science (SWMS), where she supports chapter development and communication across the network. Her long-term vision is to bridge scientific research, community needs, and climate policy to advance resilient coastal futures.
RESEARCH:
Mercedesâ doctoral research examines how climate-driven mangrove encroachment influences soil organic matter (SOM) stability and carbonânitrogen storage in coastal wetlands. Her work focuses on mineral-associated organic matter (MAOM) and particulate organic matter (POM) formation across hydrogeomorphic gradients, and how factors such as nitrogen enrichment, vegetation transitions, and hydrodynamic forces shape long-term SOM stabilization. She conducts a multi-year Âčâ”N tracer experiment and uses soil fractionation, isotope analysis, and biogeochemical measurements to understand nitrogen retention pathways in mangroveâmarsh ecotones. Her research aims to inform blue carbon strategies, restoration planning, and climate adaptation policies in both the southeastern United States and tropical coastal regions.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Email: mercedes.pinzon@ucf.edu