Sienna Aguiar
Sienna Aguiar is a Marine Mammal Master’s student at the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School, where she is focused on advancing marine mammal conservation through research, education, and community outreach. Her current work includes an internship with NOAA, where she analyzes sperm whale acoustic recordings using PAMGuard and other specialized software. Sienna is particularly interested in bioacoustics and behavior, applying data science to better understand and protect marine species.
Prior to her graduate studies, Sienna earned her bachelor's degree in Marine Sciences from Florida Atlantic University’s Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College. While there, she collaborated with Zoo Miami on a senior thesis project examining enrichment effects on sloth bear behavior. Her passion for animal welfare also led her to internships at Zoo Miami and the Florida Oceanographic Society, where she focused on behavioral monitoring and animal care. She continues to support the scientific community as VP of Fundraising for the Consuelo Foundation, connecting nonprofits with essential resources.
Sienna is dedicated to making marine science more accessible and impactful. She has contributed to K–12 outreach through programs like WAVES, helping bring hands-on marine education into classrooms. Certified in both marine mammal and manatee rescue, she combines academic knowledge with real-world application. Above all, Sienna is driven by curiosity, compassion, and a desire to inspire the next generation of scientists and conservationists.
• Marine Mammal Emergency Rescue Certified
• Manatee Rescue certified
• PADI Open Water Scuba certified
• University of Miami
• The Harriet L. Wilkes College of Florida Atlantic University
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of hard work, persistence, and the inspiration I've drawn from trailblazers in my field—particularly Dr. Sylvia Earle, whose pioneering work in marine science continues to motivate me. Currently, I’m interning at NOAA, where I have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful research by analyzing acoustic recordings of sperm whales. This hands-on experience has reinforced my passion for marine biology and deepened my commitment to advancing ocean science through research and innovation.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the field of marine science is to actively seek out networks of female scientists and build strong mentorship relationships. Surrounding yourself with a supportive community can make a significant difference in both your confidence and your career development. Don’t hesitate to pursue scholarships, grants, and research opportunities—there are many resources out there designed to help women succeed in STEM, and taking advantage of them can open important doors.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in marine science right now is accessibility—especially for students from landlocked states who may have limited exposure to ocean research or field opportunities. This can make it harder to gain hands-on experience or envision a clear path into the field. Additionally, securing funding for research remains a major hurdle, particularly for early-career scientists. That said, these challenges also present opportunities: expanding remote research tools, building more inclusive educational programs, and increasing awareness of funding resources can help make the field more accessible and diverse.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are passion, curiosity, and drive. I'm deeply motivated by the desire to make a meaningful impact through my work, whether it's contributing to scientific research or supporting conservation efforts. I approach challenges with a genuine curiosity and a commitment to continuous learning, always striving to understand more and do better. Passion fuels everything I do, and it's what keeps me focused on creating change in the world around me.
Locations
NOAA
Miami, FL 33149