Monica V. Orellana
Oceanography
Phytoplankton physiological ecology Current Position
Senior Research Scientist Degree
Ph.D., Biological Oceanography, University of Washington, 1990 Research Interests
Dr. Orellana has experience with phytoplankton physiological ecology, dynamics of polymer gels, and processes of regulated exocytosis of polymers produced by phytoplankton and their roles in ecosystem dynamics including interactions with bacteria. Phytoplankton are organisms responsible for about 40% of the total photosynthesis that occurs in our planet and play a critical role in the global carbon cycle and ultimately in global climate. Dr Orellana is applying a systems-based approach to understand carbon sequestration in the ocean, by focusing on proteins released by diatoms into seawater. Dr. Orellana is also interested in understanding the links between ocean processes and human health and is part of the University of Washington's Pacific Northwest center for Human Health and Ocean Sciences and NOAA's Oceans and Human Health initiative which investigate environmental conditions triggering blooms of harmful algae in our marine waters and ultimately, how these blooms impact human health. Selected Publications
Orellana MV, Petersen TW, van den Engh G. UV-excited blue autofluorescence of Pseudo-nitzschia multiseries. 2004. J. Phycology 40: 705-710 Chin W-C, Orellana MV, Quesada I, Verdugo P. Secretion in unicellular marine phytoplankton: demonstration of regulated exocytosis in Phaeocystis globosa. 2004. J Plant Cell Physiol. 45: 535-542 Orellana MV, Verdugo P. Ultraviolet radiation inhibits the exchange between dissolved and particulate organic carbon in the ocean. 2003. Limnology Oceanography 48: 1618-1623 Orellana MV, Lessard EJ, Dycus E, Chin W-C, Foy MS, Verdugo P. Tracing the source and fate of biopolymers in seawater: application of an immunological technique. 2003. Mar. Chem.83: 89-99 Chin W, Orellana MV, Verdugo P. Formation of microgels by spontaneous assembly of dissolved marine biopolymers. 1998. Nature 391:568-572