About Us

Our team includes five innovators specializing in data science, engineering, and creative problem-solving. Collectively, we bring over 20 years of expertise in machine learning, data visualization, and time series forecasting. Together, we’ve developed CoralSense—an AI-driven model that predicts future reef health by integrating diverse environmental data. Our interactive map empowers policymakers, researchers, and conservationists with real-time insights to protect and restore reefs before it’s too late.

Meet Our Team

Kiara Monahan

UC Berkeley MIDS Student

Kiara is a data scientist with biomedical research experience passionate about using technology to address real-world challenges and create positive change. With a Master of Information and Data Science from UC Berkeley, she brings expertise in data analysis, machine learning, and visualization. A new member of the Golden Gate Bird Alliance's San Francisco Conservation Committee, Kiara is committed to contributing to conservation in her local community.

Nigel Lewis

UC Berkeley MIDS Student

Nigel Lewis is a seasoned public health professional with over 10 years of experience spanning local, state, and federal levels. Based in Atlanta, GA, he is currently a Data Engineer at Booz Allen Hamilton, where he leverages data to drive impactful solutions in public health and beyond. Nigel is set to graduate from the UC Berkeley Master of Information and Data Science (MIDS) program in December 2024, bringing advanced skills in data science, machine learning, and analytics to address complex health and societal challenges..

Ted Johnson

UC Berkeley MIDS Student

Ted Johnson is a technology professional with a foundation in digital advertising and engineering. Formerly a Senior AdTech Engineer at a leading digital advertising agency, Ted spent five years driving innovative solutions in the fast-paced ad technology space. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and is currently completing his Master of Information and Data Science at the University of California, Berkeley. With expertise in engineering, data science, and analytics, Ted is passionate about leveraging technology to solve complex challenges and create meaningful impact.

Theresa Sumarta

UC Berkeley MIDS Student

Theresa Sumarta is a Master’s student in Information and Data Science at UC Berkeley, with a strong foundation in Chemical Engineering from the University of Washington. She has developed her expertise through professional experience by enhancing process stability with statistical modeling, streamlining data analysis through automation, and advancing product development using machine learning and experimental design. Passionate about leveraging advanced data science techniques to tackle complex challenges, Theresa is eager to apply her skills in machine learning, generative AI, and statistical analysis to create innovative, data-driven solutions that deliver transformative outcomes.

Tigran Poladian

UC Berkeley MIDS Student

Tigran Poladian is a Software Engineering leader with decades of experience and a downward career spiral with projects spanning Space, Air, Ground and Sea domains. A recent trip to the Caribbean re-ignited a passion to work on environmental projects after seeing bleached and devastated coral firsthand. He holds a Bachelor's in Math & Applied Science and a Master's in Computer Science - Robotics and is currently completing his second graduate degree from University of California, Berkeley in Information and Data Science.

Our Vision

Coral reefs, the foundation of marine biodiversity, are facing unprecedented challenges from climate change, pollution, and human impact. With cutting-edge data analysis and predictive modeling, we aim to lead global efforts in reef conservation, providing insights that drive sustainable action for a healthier planet.

Our Approach

Coral Sense integrates satellite imagery, underwater surveys, and advanced machine learning algorithms including time-series modeling to monitor the current health of coral reefs and project their future conditions. By analyzing key environmental factors like water temperature, pollution levels, and historical reef data, we generate precise insights to inform actionable conservation strategies.