ABOUT ME

Hi! I’m Aly Putnam, a marine ecologist studying how climate change and biological invasions shape coastal ecosystems. My research focuses on species interactions, physiological performance, and resilience under multiple stressors, particularly in dynamic intertidal habitats. I bridge fundamental and applied ecology; conducting experiments, monitoring biodiversity, and using modeling and synthesis to inform climate adaptation and conservation in coastal New England.

I work across systems like Long Island Sound, Narragansett Bay, and Boston Harbor, partnering with agencies and organizations such as the National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey, Northeast Aquatic Nuisance Species Panel, and Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center. I’m especially interested in how warming and extreme events affect invertebrates and algae, and how invasive species reshape ecological communities.
​
In addition to my research, I’m a passionate advocate for justice, equity, diversity, inclusion, and access in STEM. I’m a first-generation college graduate, community college alum, disabled scholar, and a mom of two. I’ve helped build mentoring programs, disability advocacy networks, and women-in-STEM initiatives. I believe that creating a more just and inclusive scientific community leads to better science and a better future!