Raquel Corniuk

Raquel Corniuk is a Research Specialist at the Harte Research Institute, working within the Coastal Conservation & Restoration Laboratory.

She holds a B.S. in Integrative Biology from the University of Illinois and an M.S. in Marine Science from Hawaiʻi Pacific University. Raquel has a diverse background in marine science, with experience spanning conservation research, field biology, and environmental consulting. Most recently, she served as a Project Manager and Marine Biologist at Marine Surveys & Assessments in Washington, where she conducted SCUBA-based habitat assessments and managed the environmental components of marine infrastructure projects.

Much of her work focused on monitoring submerged aquatic vegetation and other habitat indicators to evaluate mitigation and restoration outcomes. She has also worked as a Research Manager at Hawaiʻi Pacific University’s Center for Marine Debris Research, leading large-scale projects involving the removal, research, and recycling of marine debris.

Raquel was drawn to HRI for its collaborative, impact-driven approach to conservation and restoration science. In her current role, she supports field and lab-based projects aimed at enhancing coastal resilience and ecosystem health across the Gulf of Mexico.

Raquel enjoys exploring the outdoors, spending time at the beach, and going on adventures with her golden retriever, who’s always eager to tag along.