Reina Balley
MS Student - Biogeochemistry
I am a first-year MS student in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. I received my BS in Environmental Geosciences from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities in 2023.
My Research Focus
My current research focuses on characterizing the accumulation of atmospheric compounds from snowpack into lacustrine environments during the Spring melt. I am interested on how compounds enter and interact with Minnesota lakes during and after lake ice has been established. My compounds of focus are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), refractory black carbon (rBC), phosphate (P; orthophosphate), and nitrate (NO3 ^-). These all have critical ecological and/or public health interests. PFAS specifically is a major contaminant of Minnesota lakes, rivers, and drinking water.
About Me
MS Student and Geoscientist
I am a Minnesota native and am hoping my research will benefit not only my community but the extending community as well. I worked as a geoscientist for a local environmental consulting agency, Landmark Environmental, LLC, based in Bloomington, MN, for 4 years as both an intern and a full-time employee. I have always enjoyed the outdoors and have a passion for sustainability and environmental stewardship. Outside of my work, I enjoy playing board games, hiking, traveling, attending Timberwolves games, and creating art.
