Our Staff

Cozette Romero

Seasonal Monitoring Specialist

Cozette is a dedicated ecologist and conservation biologist with a passion for preserving biodiversity and protecting endangered species and ecosystems. Having lived in Hawai’i from the age of 10 years old, she developed a deep passion for island ecology and culture. Most of her work has focused on avian ecology and invasive species, and she is deeply committed to DEI initiatives and the integration of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) in community-based natural resource management.

She majored in Biology at University of Hawai’i Hilo and received her Master’s Degree in Ecology from Colorado State University where she studied the impact of invasive rodent control and other stressors related to climate and habitat on Hawaiian forest birds. Prior to grad school, she also held various roles in Hawai’i, including working with fruit fly genetics, studying bird nesting success, working with bioacoustics, conducting point count surveys, and monitoring endangered species. In her free time, Cozette spends time with friends, hiking, swimming, dancing, going to the gym, playing games, and finding new and fun ways to stay active.