Monica Schul

Monica is a marine ecologist specializing in marine microbial ecology and the development of innovative blue-tech solutions to advance marine conservation. Her expertise includes leading field expeditions, strategic planning and grant writing, and designing applied methodologies for coral reef conservation. Her research focuses on marine invertebrate microbiomes in both health and disease, microbial transmission dynamics in symbiotic relationships, and isolating bioactive compounds from marine microorganisms for potential industry applications.

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Monica's fieldwork experience includes coordinating and leading experiments in remote locations, conducting ecological monitoring, curating specimens for molecular analyses, and contributing to restoration projects. She also brings strong expertise in laboratory operations and experimental workflows, including DNA/RNA extractions, developing bioinformatic pipelines, building and operating aquarium systems, and managing a BSL-2 laboratory environment.

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During her doctoral studies, Monica co-founded the blue biotechnology startup Cordelia Biosciences, where she served as Chief Science Officer. She established and expanded the research division, directed product development, navigated regulatory and IP frameworks, and secured funding through grants, partnerships, pitch competitions, awards, and accelerator programs. She gained experience in business development for ocean technologies and stakeholder engagement across industry, government, and academia. As a result, she has built an extensive network of scientists, investors, officials, and entrepreneurs.

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Science communication and public engagement are among Monica’s greatest passions. She currently volunteers with nonprofit organizations in ocean conservation and education by assisting with fundraising, inspiring students through public speaking, and creating illustrations and photographs for outreach programs, journal covers, and marine literacy campaigns. She is also an affiliate faculty lecturer at Florida Atlantic University, where she and her co-founder shared their experiences as blue-tech entrepreneurs at graduate-level events and seminars.

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Monica’s contributions are featured in peer-reviewed journals including Frontiers in Marine Science, The Biological Bulletin, and Scientific Reports. She has presented at major conferences such as the International Coral Reef Symposium, European Coral Reef Symposium, and the American Society for Microbiology Conference. Her honors include the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, Ocean Exchange Collegiate Award, and the UF Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering Dean’s Research Award. She has collaborated with the Smithsonian Institution, coral conservation nonprofit groups, and multiple universities. Recognized for her leadership in scientific diving, she also serves on the University of Florida Dive Safety Board and holds certifications as an AAUS Scientific Diver, NAUI Scuba Instructor, and NAUI First Aid/CPR Instructor.

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Outside of her professional work, Monica enjoys backpacking, cave diving, and exploring tidal pools. She is currently advancing her underwater photography skills and preparing to share her work on social media platforms.