Habtemichael earned two Masters degrees in environmental science and management and in marine affairs at URI. His work with STEEP has focused on bioaccumulation of persistent pollutants in the marine food web.

Habtemichael applied for Knauss realizing that science and policy are not separate, even though they are often perceived as individual pathways. “Ecosystems show us that everything is connected,” he said.

The Knauss Fellowship is a one-year paid opportunity for current and recent graduates from advanced degree programs to apply their scientific knowledge and experiences to current issues in science, policy, and public administration. Students who are enrolled in or have recently completed master’s, Juris Doctor and Doctor of Philosophy programs with a focus and/or interest in marine and coastal science, policy, or management apply to one of the 33 eligible Sea Grant programs.

Read more from Rhode Island Sea Grant and the University of Rhode Island.