Reina Balley
MS Student - Biogeochemistry
I am a second-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) and black carbon (BC). Both of these 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 from Minnesota and I 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.
Recognition and Awards
-2026 Lipman Research Award Recipient from the Geological Society of America
-2026 Mac Hyde Scholarship and Award from Minnesota Brownfields
-2026 H.E. Wright Footsteps Award from the University of Minnesota Earth and Environmental Sciences (ESCI) Department.
-2026 V. Rama Murthy and Janice A. Noruk Fellowship from the University of Minnesota ESCI Department.