Andrea C. Alfaro Appointed Director of the UC Davis Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute
The Office of Research at UC Davis is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrea C. Alfaro as the new director of the UC Davis Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute (CMSI) effective January 1, 2026.
Alfaro succeeds Jay Stachowicz, a professor in the Department of Evolution and Ecology, who served as the interim director of the research unit for the past two years.
In her role, Alfaro also assumes responsibility for the Bodega Marine Laboratory (BML), the core research and educational facility of CMSI, succeeding John Largier, a professor in the Department of Environmental Science and Policy and director of BML since April of 2022.
“Andrea is well-suited to excel in her leadership role at CMSI, bringing a deep scientific background in marine sciences and an impressive track record of success leading large, multidisciplinary projects,” said Simon Atkinson, vice chancellor for research at UC Davis. “I would like to thank Jay and John for their admirable contributions throughout their leadership terms and their support to ensure an effective transition.”
Prior to joining the CMSI, Alfaro was professor of Marine Ecology and Aquaculture at Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand and served as the chief scientist and board member of the Ocean Beach Aquaculture Park in Bluff, New Zealand.
As a scientist and an academic leader, Alfaro brings a multidisciplinary approach to marine ecology and aquaculture research, with a focus on aquatic diseases, animal physiology, host-microbe interactions, climate resilience and nutritional efficiencies across a range of fish and shellfish species.
Much of her work involves examining how environmental factors influence biological processes and the adaptive responses of marine organisms. Through her research, she investigates the physiological, metabolic and immunological effects of climate change, with a particular focus on thermal stress, hypoxia and pathogen exposure.
“My career has focused on bridging ecological science with practical solutions, particularly through long-standing collaborations with aquaculture and fisheries industries, policymakers and Indigenous communities,” said Alfaro. “I’m honored to join CMSI and looking forward to advancing interdisciplinary research that addresses the sustainability and resilience of coastal and ocean systems while building upon the strategic goals of this position.”
With over two decades of successfully overseeing large, multidisciplinary projects in both academic and commercial settings, Alfaro has a proven track record of leading and building collaborative teams and managing complex operations. She has also been actively involved in planning and implementing long-term infrastructure projects and sustainability models.
As the director of the Institute, she will apply her deep knowledge and experience to focus on expanding CMSI’s educational reach, ensuring programs are accessible and inclusive to underrepresented students and communities. She will work with campus stakeholders, government agencies, international collaborators, industry partners and community organizations to foster innovation while helping translate academic findings into public knowledge.
Alfaro received her bachelor’s degree in wildlife and fisheries biology from UC Davis, a master’s in biology from the California State University, Northridge, and a doctorate in environmental and marine science from the University of Auckland.
About the Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute
California’s coastal regions are a cornerstone of its economy and cultural identity. However, evolving challenges like climate change and resource extraction demand innovative, cross-disciplinary solutions. The UC Davis Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute, with its premier facilities and strategic location at the Bodega Marine Laboratory, is uniquely equipped to address these issues, forging vital partnerships to ensure the sustainable management of the invaluable coastal and marine resources.
