woman in dominican republic outside a church

Hola, me llamo Laura!

Scientist, Photographer, and Creator

I’m a marine scientist working for the University of Miami at Biscayne National Park! I love the ocean and want to do everything I can to help protect it. Scuba Diving is my favorite hobby; you can usually find me 60 feet underwater off the coast of South Florida!

woman on beach with beach trash
We also pick up a lot of trash!

01. Bay Watch is my profession!

I work as a field and lab scientist in a water quality lab at Biscayne National Park! I drive boats and dive around Biscayne Bay all day, every day!

02. Invasive Lionfish Expert

For years, I’ve been involved in lionfish research, removal, and education.

woman with lionfish on boat
I’ve specialized in Lionfish programs for years!
woman free diving underwater in the ocean
Free diver in training!

03. Professional Diver on the side

I’m also a professional SCUBA diver for Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale.

Get to know me more!

Chomp! Chomp!

Proud University of Florida alum where I graduated in 2017 with a degree in Marine Science. Go Gators!

Shameless fish nerd

Fish are just about the coolest thing in the world, right? Most people have a bucketlist; well, I have a fish bucketlist. I want to see them ALL!

I can speak three languages!

Bienvenido! Welcome! Bienvenue!

I’m originally from Cali, Colombia but moved to the USA when I was a little girl. Raised in Miami, I sharpened my Spanish, learned English and French!

Invasive Species Huntress

South Florida is riddled with harmful invasive species: iguana, lionfish, and python, amongst others. I’m prideful in helping the environment when we humanely take care of these species!

Marine Conservationist by proxy

My job at Biscayne National Park allows me to aid in ocean conservation. I help rescue injured sea turtles, clean marine debris, and minimize human impact on our natural resources!

Salty Sailor in training

Just like Andrew, we’re learning how to sail so we can sail the Caribbean some day!

Want to know more?

Check out our blog or contact us with any questions you have! Thank you and welcome to OceanWide Explorers!