Why mentorship matters
Mentoring graduate students and postdocs is central to my research program. Over the past decade, I’ve worked with deeply talented and curious early-career scientists — and I continue to be inspired by the passion and perspective they bring. My goal as a mentor is to motivate, collaborate, and support each individual as they grow into independent scientists equipped with diverse skills and a strong sense of purpose.
I approach mentorship as a two-way relationship: we learn from each other, co-develop research ideas, write proposals and manuscripts together, and engage in fieldwork and data analysis side-by-side. This foundation of mutual respect and trust helps foster creativity, critical thinking, and confidence.
What we do
Our group focuses on interdisciplinary, applied research that informs the sustainable use of coastal and marine systems. Current and recent student/postdoc projects include:
Analyzing time-series data from fisheries
Building population models in R
Conducting fish surveys via scientific SCUBA
Collecting artisanal landings data in the field
Linking fish consumption with coastal nutrition
Designing household surveys to assess dietary diversity
Lab members are encouraged to develop their own ideas, supported through mentoring plans and regular check-ins that help set goals and track progress.
Our Culture
We work together to create a productive, inclusive, and supportive environment. Diversity — in identities, backgrounds, disciplines, and perspectives — is foundational to how we do science. I especially encourage applications from underrepresented students, including (but not limited to) Black, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, Native American, and other students of color.
At URI, we benefit from a culture that values interdisciplinary research and community-engaged science. I aim to provide lab members with the time, space, and resources to grow personally and professionally — and to succeed in whichever path they pursue.
How to Apply
If you’re interested in joining our group, please take time to explore this website and learn more about our work. If it feels like a good fit, I’d love to hear from you.
To get in touch:
Email me at humphries@uri.edu
Include a CV or brief intro paragraph
Share a short statement describing your research interests, experience, career goals, and why you’re interested in our group
If our interests align, I’d be happy to start a conversation.