Mojgan Rostaminia, Physical Scientist, Office of Coast Survey

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Mojgan “Mojy” Rastaminia and I’m a physical scientist in NOS’s Office of Coast Survey, where we produce navigation products and services that ensure safe and efficient maritime commerce on America’s oceans and coastal waters, and in the Great Lakes.

What do you do as a physical scientist in the Office of Coast Survey?

I am part of a team that enhances the usability and accuracy of water elevation data. Specifically, we develop, refine, and operate numerical ocean models to generate and validate conversion values between vertical tidal datums. These datums act as foundational reference points for measuring water elevations and heights so that they can support and inform engineering, navigation, infrastructure management, and floodplain planning in the coastal and marine environments.

My work is integrated into VDatum, an online software developed by NOS. VDatum enables the seamless transformation of elevation data between different vertical reference systems, ensuring accuracy and consistency in coastal and marine applications. My work also focuses on processing and analyzing observational data, such as tide gauge records, to validate model results.

To streamline these efforts, I develop and maintain scripts in the programming languages Python and MATLAB to automate model simulations, data processing, and visualization. Additionally, I collaborate with other NOAA teams and academic institutions to enhance project outcomes. My work also involves conducting research to improve datum accuracy, publishing findings, and presenting at conferences.

How did you get to where you are now in your career?

My educational background is in oceanography and I completed my Ph.D. with a focus on numerical modeling. My career began as a hydrodynamic modeler in NOS where I led projects focused on implementing and improving hydrodynamic models to support their transition from research to operations. I continue to work on those types of projects today. For example, I am currently working on a multi-year effort to expand our VDatum software to include areas like Hawaii and the Pacific Islands.

What about your work do you find to be the most rewarding?

One of the most exciting aspects of my work is the ability to bridge scientific research with real-world applications that directly impact coastal communities. Developing and refining ocean models is particularly rewarding because it enhances the precision of coastal mapping and navigation. It is really meaningful to see the models and transformation tools I work on being used to support infrastructure planning and disaster response. Additionally, collaborating with a variety of scientists, engineers, and researchers — both within NOAA and at academic institutions — is incredibly fulfilling. The dynamic nature of the field, where I am constantly learning and solving complex challenges, keeps me engaged and motivated.