Daniel Dauhajre

Biography

I am a physical oceanographer specializing in ocean modeling. I received a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Southern California and M.S. and Ph.D. in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences from UCLA. Before joining the UCSB faculty in 2025, I conducted research as a postdoctoral scholar and assistant researcher in the Center for Earth Systems Research at UCLA.

Research

We primarily develop ocean models to conduct basic, curiosity-driven and applied oceanographic research, complementing simulations with measurements and theory. Our central research explores turbulent ocean flows and waves across multiple scales, with a particular focus on coastal regions. We aim to fundamentally understand the dynamics of these turbulent currents and waves and their role in transporting materials such as pollution, nutrients, and larvae.

We also collaborate on interdisciplinary themes, such as kelp forest ecosystem dynamics and marine carbon dioxide removal. This work involves developing and analyzing regional simulations—constrained by ongoing measurements—that couple ocean circulation, biogeochemical cycling, and seaweed.