Ariel Levi Simons

Ariel Levi Simons is a Postdoctoral Scholar at the Institute of the Environment and Sustainability at the University of California, Los Angeles. His research integrates machine learning with environmental DNA (eDNA), remote sensing, and field observations to analyze ecosystem responses to anthropogenic stresses. Prior to his postdoctoral work, Levi taught high school science in Los Angeles and collaborated with students on community science projects, including monitoring nuclear fallout from the Fukushima meltdown and mapping the chemistry of the Los Angeles River.

• Doctoral Background: Ph.D. in Environment and Sustainability from USC’s Department of Marine and Environmental Biology.
• Key Expertise: Probiotics for shellfish aquaculture, light pollution impacts on coastal ecosystems, and eDNA applications in ecological monitoring.

Current Work focuses on developing Sage Hill as an outdoor classroom and research site, where he mentors senior practicum students in studying ecology within human-dominated environments like Los Angeles. His interdisciplinary approach bridges ecological science with technological innovation, leveraging his involvement in the maker movement through CRASH Space hackerspace.