Experts Guide

Hapke studies global impacts of sea-level rise and increased coastal hazards from inundation, storms, and erosion. She can discuss how coastal processes and evolution are critical for understanding vulnerabilities to the various hazards in both natural and built systems. Her research focuses on the geomorphic evolution of coastal systems ranging from barrier islands to rocky coasts and estuarine systems to understand how past changes may inform what may happen in the future.

Smoak studies soil carbon accumulation rates in coastal wetlands as indicators of long-term ecosystem stability and how climate change, rising sea level and hurricanes impact coastal wetland ecosystems. He is part of the Initiative on Coastal Adaptation and Resilience (iCAR), which uses research and education to provide the understanding and ideas needed to make critical decisions regarding changing and vulnerable coastlines.

Peebles studies how coastal fish and their prey interact over time and space, and how factors like freshwater flow affect estuaries and coastal ecosystems. His research uses tools such as stable isotope analysis, DNA barcoding, hydrodynamic models and otolith chemistry to track fish movement, habitat connections and exposure to environmental stressors.

Frazer is a Professor and Dean of the College of Marine Science at the University of South Florida. Prior to his arrival at USF, Dr. Frazer was Director of the School of Natural Resources and Environment at the University of Florida and served also as Chief Science Officer for the State of Florida. Dr. Frazer holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Fisheries Biology from Humboldt State University and a Master’s Degree in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences from the University of Florida. He earned his Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from the University of California, Santa Barbara. His research addresses contemporary and emerging environmental issues, and is, by nature, interdisciplinary.