Kelly Murphy
About Kelly Murphy
Kelly Murphy is a Geographic Information System Specialist currently employed at the U.S. Geological Survey in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area. She has a background in marine science and has conducted research on coral reef ecosystems and their response to sea level rise.
Work at U.S. Geological Survey
Kelly Murphy has been employed at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) as a Geographic Information System Specialist since 2019. In this role, she applies her expertise in geographic information systems to support various projects and initiatives related to environmental science. Her work contributes to the understanding of coastal and marine ecosystems, particularly in the context of climate change and sea level rise.
Education and Expertise
Kelly Murphy earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Science from Florida Gulf Coast University, completing her studies from 2015 to 2019. Her academic background provides a strong foundation in marine ecosystems, which she further applies in her current role. She plans to pursue a master's degree in geoscience, focusing on the role of coral reefs as natural barriers against coastal hazards.
Background in Research and Internships
Prior to her current position at USGS, Kelly Murphy gained valuable experience as a Student Researcher at Florida Gulf Coast University from 2018 to 2019. She also worked as an Environmental Intern at the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission for four months in 2018. These roles allowed her to develop skills in research and data analysis, particularly in relation to environmental conservation and marine ecosystems.
Research Focus on Coral Reef Ecosystems
Kelly Murphy conducts research on the divergence of seafloor elevation and sea level rise in coral reef ecosystems along the Florida Reef Tract. This research is critical for understanding the impacts of climate change on coastal environments and informs strategies for conservation and management of these vital ecosystems.