Biography

John Kristoffer “JK” Andres is from the Philippines and moved to Orlando for his PhD. JK earned his B.S. Biology Degree from the University of the City of Manila. He also has an M.S. Degree in Marine Science, majoring in Marine Biology, from the University of the Philippines-Marine Science Institute. He is currently in his first year as a Ph.D. student at UCF.

His research interests include toxin dynamics of harmful algae, seafood safety, and trophic transfer of plankton to other organisms. JK is the recipient of the Dean’s Scholarship Award from the College of Science at UCF. Back in the Philippines, he partnered with the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute to promote science and encourage the next generations to pursue STEM programs by going to different places in the Philippines and doing immersive activities. He wants to pursue his passion for research and start his own lab that specializes in seafood safety and harmful algal studies.

In his free time (yes, we do need a break), he loves playing volleyball and going to the gym to destress. He is a coffee addict. He is a marine biologist who loves the sea but is afraid of the sea (we don’t know what’s lurking underneath. Lol).