Meet our team.

MEER spans an international network of scientists, engineers, project managers, volunteers, students and supporters. Energized and motivated, our network aims to be a leader in climate mitigation and adaptation development.

Our Directors

Our Team

Dr. Gregory Czap
Dr. Gregory Czap
Research Associate
USA
Greg volunteers with MEER to assist with technical and scientific research questions. A lifelong California resident, Greg received his bachelor’s in physics at the University of California, Davis. He went on to pursue graduate studies at University of California, Irvine where he further developed his teaching, scientific and instrumentation skills. He received his doctorate in chemical and materials physics in 2018. Today he works as a researcher studying the physics and chemistry of individual atoms and molecules on surfaces, particularly their magnetic properties with a long-term goal of learning to build devices at the atomic scale. In his spare time, he enjoys gardening, running, and volunteering to help clean up creeks.
Rose Taylor
Rose Taylor
Education Coordinator
UK
Rose is a geography teacher based in Somerset, UK. She is the sustainability and climate literacy lead teacher at her school and leads the Climate Action Team. The team has been chartered as the world's first Net Zero Interact club and they fundraise for MEER by holding regular events. Rose also teaches teachers and student teachers at local universities about climate change and sustainability and how to embed an environmentally conscious culture into school communities. She is a strong advocate of student voice and is passionate about giving young people a platform from which they can make a difference in the world. Rose enjoys outdoor adventures with her family and various musical hobbies!
Simon de Wrangel
Simon de Wrangel
Architect
Belgium
Simon de Wrangel has been a registered architect in the UK since 1986 and assists MEER in the practical deployment of its surface reflectors. He's a responsible climate and environmental activist.
Dominic Ashmole
Dominic Ashmole
Administrative Assistant
UK
Dominic Ashmole is a time-served technology R&D professional with a background in healthcare IT, specialising in intellectual property, partnerships and project management. Alongside contributing to MEER, he also dedicates time to social and environmental justice causes and to supporting nature recovery projects in south Scotland.
Kate Hill
Kate Hill
Donor Stewardship Officer
UK
As Volunteer Coordinator, Kate Hill monitors the contact response forms and communicates with potential volunteers, seeking to fit them to roles within the organization. With a Masters in English Literature and a number of teaching qualifications, Kate has also worked with children for 38 years. A keen amateur musician, she loves hiking and being out in nature.
Erik Schreiner
Erik Schreiner
Research Assistant
USA
Erik Schreiner has recently joined the MEER team as a Research Assistant. He graduated from Harvard College with a B.A. in Physics and is particularly interested in nanotechnology and its relevance to various fields. Erik hopes to contribute to our understanding of how reflectors interact with their environment to safely and effectively address the climate crisis while working at MEER. He was born in Utah but grew up near the Adirondack Park in Upstate New York and enjoys spending most of his waking hours outdoors. He enjoys cooking and outdoor activities such as rock climbing, running, and hiking in his free time. Erik is always looking for ways to challenge himself both physically and mentally.
Adam Lee
Adam Lee
Machinist
USA
Adam Lee is a full-time machinist at MEER. He oversees the manufacturing process of converting blueprints and raw materials into research tools that yield useful data. In addition, he has been working on developing accessible scientific instruments used to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of MEER's adaptation and mitigation strategies. He has worked closely with MEER's scientific team to produce many of the prototypes now being deployed in field experiments. Adam has a decade of fabrication experience and enjoys making furniture, cabinetry, and tools as a woodworker. He has experience in drafting, CNC machining, cabinetry, carpentry, and auto repair. His hands-on skills have many practical applications. His dedication and skills have been vital in driving MEER's experiments forward since 2021.
Mark Milne
Mark Milne
Projects Officer
Switzerland
Mark Milne is a projects officer who collaborates with multiple directors to advance logistics and communications for numerous ongoing research projects at MEER. With extensive experience in various fields, Mark currently fundraises for renewable energy in Zürich, Switzerland, where he has resided for 25 years. Additionally, Mark is a musician, outdoor sports enthusiast, and proud father of three.
Amy O'Leary
Amy O'Leary
Fundraising Consultant
USA
Amy O'Leary served numerous charitable nonprofit organizations in the U.S. for decades as a staff member, a volunteer, and a board member. She retired in 2023 from her most recent position as Director of Knowledge Sharing for the National Council of Nonprofits. She considers climate change to be the defining global issue of our time, and is privileged to serve MEER as a volunteer fundraising consultant. Amy loves hiking in the woods with her husband, children, and grandchildren and kayaking on rivers and lakes near her Southeastern Pennsylvania home.
David Rennke
David Rennke
Videographer
USA
David Rennke is a filmmaker, artist, and musician who enjoys exploring the wild places wherever he finds them. He spends his time making music, hiking, kayaking, taking backroad adventure motorcycle trips, and working with climate groups to educate and raise awareness on the dangers of global warming.
Helen Paine
Helen Paine
Strategy Officer
USA
A former technical advisor/data architect for the U.S. Government, Helen Paine has extensive experience in developing strategies for modernization of large, complex data systems, socialization of technical concepts for nontechnical audiences, public speaking, technical team leadership, development of funding acquisition strategies, and execution management of large data projects. She possesses a critical understanding of the ways in which data-driven project deployment can contribute to the growth and wide-spread acceptance of initiatives. She is passionate about humanity’s need to immediately address the climate emergency through solutions built for the common good of all life. Helen is also a lifelong student of philosophy, and has taught meditation and facilitated group retreats for many years. She loves to read, walk, and garden.
Bill Dillon
Bill Dillon
Operations, CA
USA
Bill has been in construction since he was 13, working with his father. After college, he became a carpenter specializing in high-rises, custom homes, and tracks. He obtained his General Contracting and C-10 licenses in 1997. Bill is an electrical lighting and design expert and uses his knowledge to manage sub-contractors efficiently.. Bill is a seasoned professional who has been an essential part of the MEER project team in California for the past few years. His contribution to the project has been invaluable, particularly in building ground-based experiments for solar radiation management. His colleagues highly regard his expertise and skills, and he is widely recognized as a top performer in his field. The MEER team is fortunate to have him on board, and his dedication and commitment to the project have been instrumental in its success.
Samuel Eaton
Samuel Eaton
Engineering Intern
USA
Samuel Eaton is a student studying engineering at UC Berkeley and working on community projects. He believes that the best engineering happens when it’s closely connected to the people it impacts, and addresses social/political dynamics in tandem with technical ones. In his free time he enjoys rock climbing, reading, and cooking.
Obinna Okonwo
Obinna Okonwo
Legal Adviser
Nigeria
Obinna volunteers his legal skills to support MEER's goals. His 13 years experience in legal advisory, commercial transactions, regulatory compliance, and contract drafting will be invaluable as MEER navigates a sustainable future. He is a strong believer in fostering a greener tomorrow through his legal guidance.
Andrew Malcher
Andrew Malcher
Chartered Engineer
UK
Andrew Malcher has experience in interdisciplinary problem solving with Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical and 3D printing skills. He has been volunteering with MEER since 2021 assisting in the practical deployment of Film Mirrors.
Cristián Miquel
Cristián Miquel
Translations Coordinator
Chile
On the MEER Translation team, ​Cristián Miquel worked as chief legal advisor in the chilean Senate on subjects such as water resources, global warming and human rights. He has also been involved in Chilean educational system studies and advocacy with decision makers for the right to quality education.
Lucinda Shearman
Lucinda Shearman
Administrative Assistant
USA
"Lucinda has been in the dental field for over 30 years as a hygienist, hygiene instructor and instructional designer. She volunteers her educational, administrative and audio/video skills to support the goal and mission of MEER. She has a passion for implementing practical lifestyle changes that reduce her carbon footprint such as solar energy, veganism and hydroponics."
Glenn Goodwin
Glenn Goodwin
Graphic Artist
Spain
Glenn Goodwin is a Freelance Design Director who has worked in Branding and Packaging for over 20 years. He has just launched the APP kitchin.app which helps people in their kitchens prevent wasting food. He also does volunteer video editing for Facing Future, which hosts conversations on with scientists and climate activists who want to see our climate balanced.
Noah Diaz
Noah Diaz
Civil Engineering Intern
USA
Noah Diaz is a third-year Civil Engineering student at the University of California, Merced, with a passion for sustainability and clean energy. Dedicated to addressing climate change, Noah is focused on developing innovative engineering solutions that contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future. His commitment to environmental stewardship drives his studies and involvement in projects that aim to improve infrastructure while minimizing environmental impact.
Mariana Hernandez
Mariana Hernandez
Geodesign Intern
USA
Mariana Hernandez is a Geodesign undergraduate at the University of Southern California with a focus on community engagement, sustainability, and humanitarian activism. Passionate about geospatial data and research, she currently volunteers at MEER, where she collaborates with the communications team to promote MEER’s vision of addressing climate change through innovative surface reflection technology. In addition to her academic and volunteer work, Mariana is dedicated to fostering positive environmental impact through collaborative efforts.
Jasmine Salazar
Jasmine Salazar
Environmental Engineering Intern
USA
Jasmine Salazar is a third-year Environmental Engineering student at the University of California Merced, originally from East Los Angeles. Passionate about creating a cleaner climate, Jasmine is driven to make a positive environmental impact through her studies and hands-on projects. Her interests include sustainable energy solutions, air quality, and hydrology, focusing on the intricate relationship between the ocean and environmental health.
Ruby Santiago Alvarenga
Ruby Santiago Alvarenga
Environmental Systems Intern
USA
Ruby is an Environmental Systems Science major at the University of California Merced. She is deeply committed to creating engaging and effective content for environmental communications, advocating for sustainable practices to safeguard our planet for future generations, and educating communities on meaningful ways to care for our Mother Earth.

Our Collaborators

Eugenia Kargbo
Heat Officer
Sierra Leone, West Africa
Hoà Thanh Lê
Co-Founder
Lotus Microsystems
Hoa Thanh Le contributes to the development of solar-powered apparatus for multiple uses in MEER, such as a furnace to decompose CaCO3 for ocean acidification and a metal evaporator for sustainable production of mirrors. He is a researcher specializing in nanotechnology and integrated power electronics and a co-founder of Lotus Microsystems, Denmark.
Peter Kitanidis
Professor of Civil Environmental
Engineering, Stanford University
Thomas Goreau
President & Founder
The Global Coral Reef Alliance
Thomas Goreau, a biogeochemist, is president and founder of The Global Coral Reef Alliance; he has dived on coral reefs across the Caribbean, Pacific, Indian Ocean, and South-East Asia for more than 60 years. He has published papers as well as written and edited books on scientific photography, marine ecosystem restoration, soil fertility restoration and climate stabilization. He is a co-inventor of the HotSpot method for predicting coral bleaching from satellite data and of the Biorock method for regenerating marine ecosystems and eroding coastlines. Tom was educated in Jamaican schools and holds degrees from MIT, Caltech, and Harvard.
Dr. Lisa Doner
Assoc. Prof. Environmental Science
Plymouth State University
Dr. Lisa Doner is lead investigator of MEER’s field experiment, including materials acquisition, mirror design and set-up, feasibility testing and data collection. An Associate Professor of Environmental Science, her research at Plymouth State University is on detection of, and education about, climate change, in the past, present and future.
Tracey E. Lesser
Professor, NHTI
Concord's Community College
MEER collaborates with international scientists, engineers, climate experts, social service workers and officials who volunteer their time, resources and on-the-ground knowledge to assist in setting up experiments, prototypes and research facilities aimed at mitigating the detrimental effects of rising heat.
Eric Hoffman
Professor of Meteorology
Plymouth State University
Dr. Eric Hoffman has been a meteorology professor at Plymouth State University for over 20 years. His main areas of expertise is developing short-term climatological analyses of weather and weather events with some experience with making field measurements.

Sierra Leone Team

Saidu Sorie Kargbo
Saidu Sorie Kargbo
Chief Electrician, Mirror Fabrication Leader, Leakage Technician and Data Collection
Saidu Sorie Kargbo holds a Bachelor of Science degree with Honours in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the University of Sierra Leone, Fourah Bay College. As an electrical engineer, he aims to gain extensive experience and actively contribute to climate research. He plans to use his expertise to develop sustainable and eco-friendly techniques to combat climate change.
Abdul Munim Mansaray
Abdul Munim Mansaray
Human Resource Manager, Electrical Technician, Leakage Technician and Co-treasurer
Abdul Munim Mansaray obtained a Bachelor of Science degree with honours in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone. Throughout his undergraduate studies, he developed a passion for data science and was eager to apply his skills to real-world situations. He aspires to leverage his computational expertise to support MEER in accomplishing its mission.
Soko Swarray
Soko Swarray
Data collection, Project Physicist
Soko Swarray is a Bachelor of Science in Physics Honors graduate from the University of Sierra Leone's Fourah Bay College. He aspires to apply his scientific expertise in Physics to support MEER's pioneering initiatives in addressing environmental concerns.
Jalahan Hawa Miltona Sesay
Jalahan Hawa Miltona Sesay
Communications officer, Co-treasurer, Social Scientist
Jalahan Hawa Miltona Sesay holds a Bachelor of Science Degree, Honours in Physics from the University of Sierra Leone, Fourah Bay College. During her internship, she was captivated by MEER's vision and mission to provide heat relief to communities through the use of reflective mirror panels as an adaptation technique. Jalahan intends to contribute to MEER's ongoing efforts to combat climate change and its detrimental impact on the planet.
Ibrahim Sedie Sowa
Ibrahim Sedie Sowa
Data Collection Officer
Ibrahim Sedie Sowa earned a Bachelor of Science degree with honours in Mechanical and Maintenance from the University of Sierra Leone, Fourah Bay College. His goal in joining MEER is to make meaningful contributions towards addressing the pressing issues of global warming and climate change.
Sinneh Lamin
Sinneh Lamin
Project Physicist, R&D specialist & Data Collection
Sinneh Lamin Kamara is a University of Sierra Leone, Fourah Bay College graduate with a Bachelor of Science Degree and Honours in Physics. During an internship program organized by MEER, he gained extensive knowledge about climate change and possible solutions to mitigate it. He aims to contribute to MEER's heat adaptation and mitigation projects in Freetown, leveraging his expertise in the field.
Mohammed Sallieu Bah
Mohammed Sallieu Bah
R&D, Mechanical Design and Construction Lead
Mohammed Sallieu Bah graduated with a BSC (Hons) in Mechanical and Maintenance Engineering from the University of Sierra Leone, Fourah Bay College. With his experience working with various non-profits, Mohammed has always contributed his efforts to serving his community. His interest in advancing heat adaptation methods was perfectly aligned with MEER’s; therefore, he joined the organisation to help further their research and bring about substantial change.
Gifty Renner
Gifty Renner
Resident Artist, Fabrication member, Communication Assistance
Gifty Renner is an awaiting graduate at the university of Sierra Leone Fourah Bay College.She’s pursuing Bachelor of degree in Gender and Development Studies. She is also an Artist that uses her creative lens to give aesthetic sight to waste material. Gifty Renner have contributed in serving humanity for the past 4 year which earn her few certificates for her good work. Her aim is contribute to the vision and mission of Meer in creating a sustainable and eco friendly environment for people.

India Team

Samiksha Gotephode
Project Coordinator
Samiksha Gotephode is an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor's in Environmental Science at Fergusson College in Pune, India. As an environmental enthusiast, she is particularly passionate about the topics of climate change, waste management, and sustainability. She had the opportunity to coordinate the waste management efforts during the Green Campus survey at the college. She is constantly exploring the vast diversity of the environment and is always eager to learn more about it.
Bunny Singh Chouhan
Project Coordinator
Bunny Singh Clouhan has known since sixth grade that she wanted to work towards protecting the environment. Her passion for nature has grown stronger over the years, influencing everything she does daily. An undergraduate majoring in environmental science at Fergusson College Pune, she is involved in coordinating the Green Campus survey and sub-coordinating the college's water committee. She is zealous to study climate change, always looking for ways to live and promote clean and green life to the current and future generations. Bunny is also a fanatic of literature, music, hiking, journaling and occasional painting.
Yukta Pandey
Project Coordinator
Yukta Pandey is currently pursuing a Masters degree in Physics at Fergusson College. Her deep passion for the subject is closely intertwined with her commitment to environmental preservation. As an active member of the National Service Scheme (NSS), she strives to apply her theoretical knowledge to practical action and contribute to environmental and social causes across India. Through coursework and hands-on projects, she is constantly honing her skills to address the pressing environmental challenges that our planet faces today. Her ultimate goal is to leverage her physics background to make a meaningful impact on our planet. She is eager to apply her passion and skills to your organization and contribute to the crucial field of environmental science. Her unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience makes a valuable contribution to your team.
Gargee Vaidya
Project Coordinator
Gargee Vaidya is a postgraduate student pursuing a Master's in Physics at Fergusson College, Pune, India. She is passionate about Physics and enthusiastic about sustainable technologies for a cleaner environment. Always open to learning and expanding her knowledge, she is currently working on resource management and learning about finding green resources for the future. Gargee has been a part of the World Scouting Association from a very young age, and is keen on doing work for the betterment of our planet, specifically the environment and society. She plans to apply her knowledge of physics to find practical solutions for the critical issue of climate change, particularly global warming. Interested in working with your organization as it shares values and morals similar to mine regarding climate change, her skill set and knowledge can contribute to the organization's efforts in addressing this issue.
Rajat Kumar Singh
Project Researcher
As a physicist and enthusiastic environmentalist, Rajat is committed to utilizing his knowledge of physics and poetry to make a meaningful contribution to environmental causes and promote sustainable practices. He is passionate about blending science and creativity to make a positive impact on the environment and strives to achieve this through a unique fusion of his expertise.
Aditya Mane
Project Researcher
Aditya Mane is a second-year environmental science student at Fergusson College in Pune, India. As an Environmental student, I am interested in conserving the environment. People often forget that they are a part of the environment and can cause damage to it. I always try to do my best to save the environment from my side. Projects like MEER will provide me with a platform to develop my skills and learn new things, such as climate change and reshaping the environment. I plan to use this internship to develop myself and learn new skills.
Prathmesh Yemul
Project Researcher
Prathmesh Yemul is a second-year Environmental Science student at Fergusson College, Pune, India. Since childhood, Prathmesh has had a strong interest in environmental studies, which was sparked by his father's work in wastewater treatment, solid waste management, and other aspects of the environment. His father's passion for water and environmental fields inspired him to pursue a career in this area. Currently, he is involved in projects like MEER, making a difference by learning and contributing. Prathmesh has already worked in fields such as climate change, environmental impact assessment, and wastewater treatment and has gained much knowledge. The MEER opportunity under Dr. Tao was another way for him to gain exposure and enhance his skills. He looks forward to learning and building himself and contributing to the environment through this internship.
Vaishnavi Salunkhe
Project Researcher
Vaishnavi Salunkhe is currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Electronic Science at Fergusson College, Pune. I am deeply fascinated by how electronics can shape the future, from microchips to solar panels. My passion for Electronics Science is strongly connected with my desire to create innovative and sustainable technologies. I believe that electronics can be a powerful tool in fighting climate change, by developing efficient energy sources and optimizing energy consumption. I am excited to join a team of passionate individuals at your organization and contribute my skills towards your mission.
Vishwajeet Pol
Project Researcher
Vishwajeet is a student of environmental science at Fergusson College Pune with a deep passion for nature that has been shaped by his experiences as a professional mountain biker. His connection to the outdoors has inspired him to pursue a degree in environmental science, driven by his desire to address critical issues such as conservation, climate change, and sustainability. Through his academic journey, he is eager to gain the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact on the environment and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Student Researchers

Sophia Yue
Sophia Yue
NOx Valorization Technology
Vanderbilt University
Sophia Yue is currently researching how emission byproducts from chemical industries can be utilized to form useful nitrogen-based products at MEER. She recently graduated from Vanderbilt University, where she studied Chemical Engineering. Sophia enjoys baking and playing ultimate frisbee during her free time.
Jamie Shiplet
Jamie Shiplet
Climate Policy
University of San Francisco
Jamie Shiplet is pursuing a master's in public administration at the University of San Francisco, where she combines her expertise in climatology to develop international SRM policy. With an innate passion for helping others, Jamie recognizes the importance of addressing social equity in future climate change mitigation strategies and legislation.
Alfredo Quezada
Alfredo Quezada
Marine Sciences
Nova Southeastern University
Alfredo Quezada is studying the effects of changing environmental conditions on species across major trophic levels. He is a Marine Biologist from the University of California at San Diego and is currently working on a Marine Sciences (M.S.) degree at Nova Southeastern University looking to further the research and conservation efforts of our ocean's megafauna.
Gregory Pan
Gregory Pan
Urban Built Environment
Cornell University
Gregory Pan is a researcher for MEER developing models to analyze light reflection off of mirrors at the local level. He studies at Cornell University where he pursues an Environment and Sustainability degree with a focus on sustainable energy systems.
Anthony Hon
Anthony Hon
Technical Research
University of California, Berkeley
Caio Henrique Rossetto Coelho
Caio Henrique Rossetto Coelho
Engineering
Fed. Univ. of Santa Catarina, Brazil
Caio Rossetto Coelho is a materials engineering student at Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC) with a background in innovation and 4.0 manufacturing. He brings skills in the entrepreneurship and the technological innovation sector. Creativity is his motivational fuel and the beacon of his career.
Albert Chang
Albert Chang
Urban Built Environment
University of California (SD)
Albert Chang is analyzing NOx emission trends from industrial fossil fuel combustion on the NOx Valorization team, and is also designing an exterior radiant barrier roof. He studies mechanical engineering at the University of California, San Diego and is interested in sustainable energy distribution to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Jagger Alexander
Jagger Alexander
Temperature Modeling
University of Miami
Jagger Alexander is modeling incoming and outgoing solar radiation in the atmosphere. With a BA in Mathematics from Vanderbilt University and a minor in Earth & Environmental Sciences, he is currently pursuing an MS in Climate and Health at the University of Miami and will continue on into a career in climate change mitigation work.