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Two-time Charles E. Schmidt College of Science alumna Jennifer Chastant, Ph.D. ’16, M.S. ‘15, has always been curious about how biological systems work. Her father nurtured her love for water from early childhood. As a civil engineer, his career focused on environmental issues related to storm water, stream and wetland restoration. 

“I spent my first summer in college volunteering with Georgia’s Adopt-A-Stream Program,” shared the Atlanta native. “I have been hooked ever since!” 

Today, Chastant is the science supervisor for the Lake Ecological Assessment Unit in the Applied Science Bureau of the South Florida Water Management District. She oversees a team of six research scientists who work on lake ecosystem projects that include wading bird foraging, emergent and submerged aquatic vegetation, plankton, benthic macroinvertebrates and sediment dynamics.  

In addition, she also serves as the regional coordinator for the Lake Okeechobee module of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan’s (CERP) RECOVER team. RECOVER (REstoration COordination and VERification) is a multi-agency team of scientists, modelers, planners and resource specialists who organize and apply scientific and technical information in ways that support CERP’s objectives. 

“My favorite part about my job is feeling that my work can make a positive impact on the environment,” stated Chastant. “I also really enjoy the people I work with. We are all passionate and proud of what we do.” 

Chastant holds a Master of Science degree in biology (2015) and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in integrative biology (2016) from Florida Atlantic. The focus of her dissertation deepened her passion for preserving Florida’s waterways. Her project focused on Lake Okeechobee and the complex dynamics of wading bird foraging and nesting. By using wading birds as an indicator of ecosystem health, her research linked hydrology with plant and faunal responses to changing water depths, ultimately advancing management efforts in Everglades restoration. 

“My academic advisor, Dr. Dale Gawlik, was instrumental in my professional development. His insights and guidance not only expanded my understanding of ecology, but also shaped me into a better, more confident biologist,” noted Chastant. “The College of Science provided me with valuable hands-on research experience and the opportunity to build relationships with many inspiring people, all of whom played a key role in launching my career in South Florida.” 

Looking ahead, Chastant hopes that South Floridians continue to prioritize the preservation, protection and restoration of the Everglades—our region’s most vital ecosystem. 

“A healthy environment is key to ensuring clean, reliable water for everyone, and it is essential for the well-being of our communities and future generations,” said Chastant. “By safeguarding this unique natural resource, we can continue to enjoy the quality of life South Florida offers while sustaining the beauty and health of our environment.”