Roberto Masis

Seismology researcher with experience in teaching and mentoring. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Rutgers University, advised by scientists from Yale University, with a focus on seismology, complemented by a Master’s degree in seismology from Rutgers University and a bachelor's degree in geology from University of Costa Rica. Proven track record in assisting with multiple undergraduate courses, managing student assessments, and conducting lectures and lab sessions. Skilled in mentoring students, leading academic discussions, and organizing field trips to enhance practical learning experiences.
Demonstrated expertise in processing and analyzing seismic data through various research roles. Adept at creating and presenting scientific reports and peer-reviewed publications, and managing social media for research institutions . Multilingual with additional education in seismic hazard projects and Python, MatLab, Fortran and Bash programming.

My research is focused on the resulting lithospheric structure of tectonic processes after the breakup of Pangea, on opposite sides of the Atlantic: in central New England (Massachusetts) on the west side of the Atlantic and Ireland and Great Britain on the east side of the Atlantic, using worldwide earthquake data and process it with geophysical tools, involving tectonic plates analysis and advanced computational techniques.

Teaching Assistant

Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences, Rutgers University, New Jersey, USA January 2021 - Spring 2025

Supported undergraduate courses (Introduction to Geology, Structural Geology, Earthquakes & Volcanoes, Planet Earth) for up to 400 students, enhancing course delivery and student engagement.
Graded assignments and exams, delivering constructive feedback to enhance student performance.
Led lectures and lab sessions, held office hours, and provided tutoring to support student learning and academic success.

Organized and led field trips, facilitating hands-on learning experiences and enhancing practical knowledge.

Mentor

Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences, Rutgers University, New Jersey, USA Summer 2024

Provided one-on-one mentorship to geoscience undergraduates, guiding their academic and professional development.
Facilitated weekly discussions on diverse academic topics, fostering critical thinking and in-depth understanding.

Research Assistant

National Seismological Network of Costa Rica (RSN), San José, Costa Rica March 2013 - December 2020

Processed and reported seismic data in real-time for national-level distribution.
Led original research projects and collaborated with scientists on multiple research initiatives and subfields.
Managed social media for the institution, growing engagement with 470K+ Facebook and 24K+ Instagram followers.

Research Intern

Volcanological and Seismological Observatory of Costa Rica (OVSICORI), Heredia, Costa Rica January 2019 - April 2019

Processed and analyzed data to develop a ‘Repeated Earthquakes’ research project. Created and presented scientific reports.

Doctor of Philosophy in Earth & Planetary Sciences

Focus: Seismology

Rutgers University, New Jersey, USA March 2025

Master of Science in Earth & Planetary Sciences

Focus: Seismology

Rutgers University, New Jersey, USA 2021 - 2023

Bachelor of Science in Geology

University of Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica 2013 - 2019