Ameika Turner graduated from The University of the West Indies with an MSc in Natural Resource Management (IUREM) — with Distinction.

Her journey wasn’t linear. After the first year, Ameika had to sit out a year as she adjusted to university life. With persistence, long nights, and growth, she found her rhythm and went on to earn a BSc in Environmental Chemistry (Upper Second Class Honours) from the Department of Chemistry, FST.

Along the way, she discovered a love for water-focused chemistry, unknowingly laying the foundation for her future research and career. Ameika later returned to UWI for her MSc in IUREM, balancing full-time work with postgraduate study. Guided by Dr Vivienne Vassall and Dr Debbie-Ann Gordon-Smith, she learned to connect science with real-world environmental challenges.

While serving as Acting Product Quality Team Leader at J. Wray & Nephew, and as a CCRIF Scholarship recipient, Ameika pushed through moments of doubt—earning three As in her first semester and proving to herself she belonged.

Her MSc thesis, “The Use of Caffeine as a Marker for Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs) in the Rio Cobre”, explored the intersection of chemistry, climate change, wastewater, land use, and policy. Though caffeine proved unreliable, the detection of Oxazepam confirmed the presence of emerging contaminants and the need for climate-adaptive monitoring in Caribbean watersheds.

Today, Ameika leads quality operations at J. Wray & Nephew, ensuring products meet strict safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

Fun facts about Ameka:

• 4'11" with big science energy

• Singing is her passion 

• Never makes big decisions on an empty stomach

Photo caption: Ms. Ameka Turner.