Alexandra Atlee Phillips

Alexandra Atlee Phillips serves as an Assistant Teaching Professor at UCSB's Bren School of Environmental Science & Management, specializing in environmental communication, biogeochemistry, and science policy. Her work bridges scientific research with public engagement, focusing on STEM identity development and inclusive scientific practice across diverse audiences including students, policymakers, and the general public.

Her educational background includes a PhD in Geochemistry from Caltech, where she investigated sulfur and carbon cycling in aquatic systems, and a Bachelor's in Biology from UCSB's College of Creative Studies.

Phillips' research spans biogeochemical processes in lakes and oceans, particularly sulfur cycling dynamics and carbon sequestration mechanisms. She integrates this scientific foundation with communication strategies to enhance science accessibility, emphasizing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion through initiatives like social media representation projects and collaborative team frameworks. Her policy engagement includes translating scientific findings for congressional decision-making.

Her interdisciplinary publication record reveals strong connections between biogeochemical research (sulfur isotopes, carbon cycling), science communication methodologies, and inclusive academic practices. Key trends include developing analytical techniques for organic sulfur compounds, creating frameworks for belonging in scientific teams, and advancing climate policy through evidence-based communication.

Scientific recognition includes:

• AAAS STPF Fellowship in Climate Science

Phillips has held significant research and communications roles including postdoctoral positions at UCSB and the Large Lakes Observatory, and leadership of communications for the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis. She actively develops educational resources for scientific presentation skills and visual communication.

She directs multiple science communication initiatives including the 'Women Doing Science' Instagram project, develops open-access design resources for scientific posters and websites, and creates photography collections for academic branding. Her work establishes practical frameworks for scientists to enhance communication effectiveness through graphic design, photography, and policy engagement strategies.