For Stakowian, mussels are the quiet guardians of Brazil’s coastline. Her work explores how coastal urbanization and rising temperatures affect the physiology of these bivalve mollusks. Stakowian earned her bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in biological sciences and zoology from the State University of Paraná, including a period of study at the University of Aveiro in Portugal.

Having grown up in a coastal town, Stakowian learned early on to approach nature with respect and care, a perspective she now shares with her family, including her husband and two cats. She also has a passion for travel and diverse cultures.

A polyglot, tarot enthusiast, and devotee of Brazilian and Afro-Brazilian ancestral traditions, Stakowian brings a broad, culturally rich perspective to her research. Her scientific work extends beyond the laboratory, encouraging others to heed the ocean’s messages and protect it in an era of climate crisis.