Alex Ravelo

Marine Biologist

I obtained my doctorate degree in marine biology at the University of Alaska Fairbanks in 2016. Being a biologist gave me the possibility to learn about the world around me while exploring new places, from studying spider behavior in remote forests of the north of Argentina to underwater habitats in the Aleutian Islands of Alaska. My work focuses on community ecology, and I have a passion for understanding how organisms interact and how they are influenced by the environment they live in. I grew up in Argentina, and despite being a city dweller for most of my life, from a young age I was exposed to the outdoors through camping and hiking trips with my family. Through exploring the outdoors, I’ve gained confidence in my own physical abilities and have become more self-sufficient person. As a life goal, I hope to continue sharing with others my passion for the environment and science through positive experiences in nature. These days, my favorite things to do are hiking and skiing, sleeping under the stars and exploring marine shores above and below the water.

I first learned about Inspiring Girls* Expeditions while studying at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and soon began to dream of an IGE program focused on marine science. Through participating in the 2015 Inspiring Girls* Instructor workshop, I had the opportunity to learn more about the program and meet other female scientists, educators and wilderness guides interested in sharing their passion for science and nature. In 2017 and 2018 I had the opportunity to join the Girls* on Ice expeditions in Alaska and the North Cascades as a science instructor. During these expeditions, I stepped out of my comfort zone to learn about the forces that create the ice wonderlands we explored, while gaining more confidence in my leadership, mountaineering and art skills.

Girls* on Ice Alaska Instructor 2017, 2021

Girls* on Ice Cascades Instructor 2018

Girls* on Water Co-Founder; Instructor 2019, Onsite Coordinator 2023