Emma Manzella, M.S., B.S.
Coastal Scientist
- Coastal processes analysis
- Numerical modeling of waves, wind generation, and hydrodynamics
2 (1 with Coastal Solutions; 1 with others)
M.S., Physical Oceanography, University of Rhode Island, 2023
B.S., Physics, Vassar College, 2021
Ms. Manzella joined Coastal Solutions in the fall of 2025 as a coastal scientist specializing in the numerical modeling of coastal processes. Her previous research focuses on combining numerical modeling and available observations to understand physical processes from the open ocean to the coast. Her modeling work includes coupled ocean-wave simulations to examine storm-driven wave behavior, wave-current interactions, and coastal inundation. Her masters thesis used advanced turbulence modeling to examine near-surface wind-wave behavior during storm conditions.
- Beach and Marine Science Center at Northeastern University, Nahant, MA
Feasibility study of Passive Sediment Augmentation in Waquoit Bay, MA
Ms. Manzella developed a monitoring plan to determine the feasibility of Passive Sediment Augmentation to restore salt marsh in a pond within Waquoit Bay. The primary objectives of the plan included determining the success of sediment accumulation to the salt
marsh as well as monitoring the accumulation of sediment in Waquoit Bay. She designed a variety of techniques to determine the success of sedimentation.
- Coastal Inundation Study during Hurricane Ian (2022) in Lee County, FL
A coupled ocean-wave model was designed for Lee County, FL to examine coastal processes during Hurricane Ian (2022). The contributions of wave-current and wind-wave interactions to coastal inundation were quantified with available observational data.