Sally Sgarlata | University at Buffalo Glacier Modeling Lab

I am currently an MS student at the University at Buffalo working with Dr. Kristin Poinar in the Glacier Modeling Lab. I previously completed my BS in geology at St. Lawrence University where I first developed my interest in geologic studies. I began my time at UB as a part-time student, and the 2024-25 academic year marks the first year I am pursuing my master’s degree full-time.

I spent the 2024 summer interning at TRC Companies, Inc. where I assisted with Phase I Environmental Site Assessments, performed soil and water sampling, and worked on report writing for clients. Through this position, I developed skills in environmental assessment, sampling techniques, data analysis, technical writing, and an understanding of environmental regulations and standards.

My research in the Glacier Modeling Lab studies the relationship between lithology and velocities at the margins of glaciers as they move through fjords. This investigation aims to understand how variations in rock hardness might influence glacial movement and dynamics.

Pink asterisks represent my 70 study glaciers over a 1995-2015 NSIDC-0670 velocity dataset from Joughin et al.

Outside Interests:

Outside of academics, I enjoy hiking in the Adirondacks, reading, running, and painting.

Pictured above is a hike where I completed the Lower and Upper Wolfjaw, Armstrong, Gothic, Pyramid, and Sawteeth Loop in Keene, NY. — An Adirondack hike where I completed the Lower and Upper Wolfjaw, Armstrong, Gothic, Pyramid, and Sawteeth Loop in Keene, NY.