Jennifer Flannery
About Jennifer Flannery
Jennifer Flannery is a chemist at the U.S. Geological Survey, where she has worked since 2008. She specializes in coral research and has a strong educational background in marine science and chemistry.
Work at U.S. Geological Survey
Jennifer Flannery has been employed at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) as a Chemist since 2008. In her role, she has focused on the analysis of coral species to understand environmental changes. She has utilized x-ray image analysis to determine the chronology and growth rates of various massive coral species. Her research includes examining corals from the Dry Tortugas National Park to assess climate variability in the Gulf of Mexico over the past 300 years. Flannery has also trained junior scientists and interns in laboratory techniques, contributing to the development of future professionals in the field.
Education and Expertise
Jennifer Flannery holds a Master of Science in Marine Science/Chemistry from the University of South Florida, which she completed between 2006 and 2008. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Marine Science/Biology from Eckerd College from 2001 to 2005. Additionally, she obtained a Certificate in Computer Programming from St. Petersburg College, studying from 2018 to 2020. Her educational background provides her with a strong foundation in marine sciences and analytical techniques, enhancing her expertise in environmental research.
Technical Skills and Methodologies
Flannery has developed a range of technical skills throughout her career. She has performed detailed data analysis using statistical software such as R, MatLab, and Python. Her laboratory work includes operating an Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometer (ICP-OES) to study trace elemental ratios in carbonates. She has prepared coral samples for sea surface temperature reconstruction, utilizing elemental ratios like Strontium/Calcium and isotopic analyses of oxygen (18O). These methodologies are essential for her research in marine chemistry and climate studies.
Research Contributions
Throughout her career, Jennifer Flannery has made significant contributions to the field of marine science. Her research on coral species has provided insights into climate variability and environmental changes over centuries. By utilizing advanced analytical techniques and collaborating with various institutions, she has enhanced the understanding of coral ecosystems and their responses to climate factors. Her work with Orbicella faveolata and other coral species has been pivotal in reconstructing historical sea surface temperatures, contributing valuable data to climate science.