Kailani Acosta, a PhD student in Earth and Environmental Sciences at Columbia University, has traveled the world to study nutrient cycles in the ocean. Her research explores the interconnectivity of geology, race, agriculture, and marine biology. Acosta’s work will be showcased in an exhibition she curated, which will open for one night only at Persona Studio in Brooklyn.
Acosta’s journey in research began after graduating from Brown University, where she worked in environmental consulting in New York City. She discovered her passion for conducting research, being out in the field, and putting together analyses. Motivated by her curiosity and desire to understand the world better, Acosta decided to pursue a PhD.
The ocean has always held a sense of mystery and serenity for Acosta. She wanted to delve deeper into understanding the ocean in order to gain a better understanding of the world. Acosta’s focus on nutrient cycling is crucial to comprehending the basis of ecosystems. Nitrogen and phosphorus, two vital nutrients for life and growth, play a significant role both on land and in the ocean. By studying how these nutrients change over time and in different regions, Acosta aims to gain insights into the Gulf of Mexico ecosystem.
The Gulf of Mexico is an intriguing study region due to the convergence of two distinct ecosystems: the freshwater Mississippi River system and the marine Gulf of Mexico. Acosta explains that the Mississippi River basin has been heavily impacted by nutrient addition from agriculture, industry, sewage treatment, and other anthropogenic sources. On the other hand, the marine Gulf of Mexico has different biology, lower nutrient concentrations, and strong currents. This intersection of physical, chemical, and biological factors makes it an exciting area to study.
One of Acosta’s favorite research locations is Nosy Be, Madagascar, where she lived and worked at the National Center for Oceanographic Research. Here, she conducted various studies, from examining coral reef health to developing an environmental education program in remote areas of the island.
In addition to her scientific research, Acosta has also focused on promoting diversity in the field of science. As a woman of color in science, she frequently reflects on the connection between her background and her research. Acosta wanted to visually demonstrate the interconnections between geology, biology, race, and culture. This led her to curate an exhibition that showcases authentic old maps from the Columbia archives, current maps and figures, as well as physical samples like rocks and phytoplankton cultures. The exhibition aims to highlight the intertwined nature of race, culture, marine biology, and geology.
One specific map in the exhibition focuses on the Black Belt, a crescent-shaped belt of fertile soils that spans through Alabama, Mississippi, and much of the South. Acosta explains that this fertile soil was created from the weathering of rocks composed of ancient marine phytoplankton. The soil has had a profound influence on agriculture, the history of slavery in the South, tribal removal, and current patterns of race, culture, poverty, economic status, and education. Acosta’s exhibition will demonstrate how these ancient phytoplankton connect to the world we live in today.
Apart from her research, Acosta enjoys exploring the diverse culinary scene in New York City and engaging in recreational activities. Some of her favorite places include Thai Villa, La Flor de Broadway, and Absolute Bagels. In her free time, she enjoys taking walks with her dog in the park, playing softball with her team in Williamsburg, and going thrifting with a specific mission.
Kailani Acosta’s exhibition will provide a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of geology, race, agriculture, and marine biology. By visually showcasing the links between these fields through maps, physical samples, and historical context, Acosta aims to deepen our understanding of the world and the role that these factors play in shaping it.
