Meet the students from the College of Public Health and Health Professions, a diverse group dedicated to improving health and well-being in communities around the world. These students come from various backgrounds, united by their passion for health and their commitment to making a positive impact. They bring unique perspectives and experiences to their studies, preparing to become the next generation of health professionals who will address pressing health challenges and advance their field.
Meet: Alyssa Meyers
Program: Public Health Ph.D., Environmental Health concentration
Educational Background:
B.S. Marine Science-Biology and B.S. Marine Chemistry from the University of Tampa
Research Interests:
- Aquatic environmental toxicology
- Fate of PFAS
- Microplastics
- Pharmaceuticals
- Pesticides in our environment and their effect on human health.
Why did you choose the University of Florida?
The University of Florida has multiple labs conducting research that aligns with my interests, a curriculum that will expand my knowledge in the field, and opportunities for collaboration across universities and international borders.
What is your research experience?
I participated in a summer undergraduate research fellowship and received Office of Undergraduate Research grants to study the impact of the cyanobacteria Trichodesmium on zooplankton dynamics and nutrient loading, which may contribute to red tide blooms in Tampa Bay. Gained additional undergraduate research experience at Mote Marine Laboratory in the ecotoxicology program, investigating how red tide mitigation techniques may be harmful to benthic organisms.
What philosophy guides you in your education?
I’m driven by curiosity and a desire to better understand the world around me. Realizing that I’m capable of learning almost anything has helped me overcome the limitations I place on myself. Taking chances in undergraduate research has reinforced that even if I don’t know how to do something at first, I can learn and overcome challenges.
If you could solve one environmental or global health problem, what would it be?
Among the environmental and global health problems related to my field, I would focus on solving water pollution. Plastic pollution has become a widespread issue not just in oceans but also in rivers worldwide. Additionally, some companies in the United States illegally discharge chemical waste into waterways. I want to conduct research that could one day be presented to lawmakers to advocate for stronger protections of our water resources. This issue goes beyond the environment—it directly affects public health and access to clean water for drinking and recreation.
What are your career goals?
Over the next four to six years at UF, I aim to become proficient in studying a wide range of contaminants and work toward becoming an expert in my field. After earning my Ph.D., I plan to work in the private sector as an environmental toxicologist before pursuing a professorship, ultimately leading my own research on contaminants.
Want to learn more?
If you’d like to learn more about the Ph.D. in Public Health with a concentration in Environmental Health program, click here.
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