SURF Class of 2017

Class of

2017

Summer Undergraduate Research Fellows Rhode Island NSF EPSCoR Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research

Joseph Barnes | University of Rhode Island

Pathogens, nitrogen pollution & changing climate: Understanding impacts of multiple stressors on Narragansett Bay shellfish Mentor/lab: Ashley Hogan/Serena Moseman-Valtierra Majors: Aquaculture and Fishery Technology, Biology Expected graduation: May 2018 Career path: Management/regulatory position, possibly NOAA

SURF project: The Eastern Oyster, Crassotrea virginica, is a filter feeder that uptakes large amounts of water and essentially cleans it before releasing it back into the environment. This is an important ecosystem service that helps prevent the buildup of excess nutrients, including nitrogen, in the marine environment. Too much nitrogen can lead to depleted oxygen, fish kills, and large marine dead zones. Oysters remove nitrogen from the water through their filter feeding in a process called denitrification. When nitrogen-rich water is introduced to its gut, a microbial gut community convert the nitrogen into an unharmful gas that is released into the atmosphere. This process, however, also produces small amount of the greenhouse gas Nitrous Oxide (N2O). This is an increasing problem because as water temperatures rise, the oysters become more stressed and may not be as efficient at their denitrification. This, coupled with human causes inputting large amounts of nitrogen in the marine environment, affect rates of nitrogen removal. This project is looking how the combination of increased temperature and increased nitrogen loads impact the oyster’s ability to efficiently aid in nitrogen removal. I expect this project to prove the impacts of anthropogenic climate change on ecosystem services of the Eastern Oyster, and show the dangers of how it will affect an increasing aquaculture industry in Rhode Island.

Why SURF: Gaining research experience is invaluable as an undergraduate student. There are not many opportunities to gain this sort of experience in the classroom, and SURF allowed me to apply that classroom knowledge to an impactful, real world case study. I was able to form my own hypotheses and draw my own conclusions, all while building my resume, learning how to use new technology, and having fun.

The impact: The research, obviously, has been great, with a new surprise every day from the good of successfully collecting samples for analysis, to the bad of losing a data point after forgetting to hit the “start� button on the computer. The real growth, however, has been in renting an apartment in Rhode Island for the summer, living on my own, and becoming more independent. Going to work every day to explore an unexplored possibility has been exciting and exhilarating, especially working with the great people I got to know.

Most memorable research moment: There was a week in late June that my research mentor took off so that she could get married, and during that week, I was left a checklist of responsibilities to complete each day. I was essentially running the research during that week, which I felt proud of, especially for my research mentor trusting me enough to monitor the project by myself. I was also able to go out in the field with another SURF student and her mentor to get a feel for a different research project, new equipment, and to inevitably get stuck in the mud up to my thighs.

“The SURF program has fascinated me in the ways it has changed how I think about my field of work and myself; it has challenged me to be mindful and open to new ideas and ways of thinking.”

Brooks Barrett | Roger Williams University

How can public engagement in marine conservation be enhanced through novel representations of aquatic organisms and ecosystems?

Mentors: Jennifer Bissonnette, Neal Overstrom (Rhode Island School of Design) Major; minor: Marine Biology; Environmental Science|Core Concentration, Global Communications Expected graduation: May 2018 Career goal: Undetermined SURF project: The goal is to determine an effective and novel way to represent concepts of marine science and marine conservation to engage the public. Marine science and science, in general, have struggled in its areas of both communication to and engagement of the public. Throughout Rhode Island we created a location specific poster that coincides with a companion website accessed through URL’s and QR code scanned by phone devices. A welcoming spokes character directs the audience through the website component at each location as we tell you about our personal experiences and explorations of the bay. We expect, by combining our unique talents of scientist and artist, we will gain a greater response to personalizing public engagement and involvement in topics of marine science and conservation throughout the Rhode Island community.

Why SURF: I wanted to experience the process it takes to conduct research. I plan to go to graduate school soon and this experience with SURF has shown me valuable and successful methods for which I will continue to use throughout the rest of my career. SURF is an amazing opportunity for me to learn about the options available in my career and to learn the direction I want to go in according to the skills and knowledge this experience has provided me.

The impact: This program has fascinated me in the ways it has changed how I think about my field of work and myself; it has challenged me to be mindful and open to new ideas and ways of thinking. I have learned invaluable skills as not only a scientist, but also as a creative person. I also believe it has shown me how to be original, creative, and passionate about the work that I do.

Since day one of this experience, I have met so many amazing people, who have helped expand both my research abilities and my personal knowledge. This has been one of the best summers and most beneficial experiences I have had so far in my career. I have enjoyed every bit of this experience and am very glad I applied to this program.

Most memorable research moment: Getting out in the field collecting any samples we could find. I will always remember that cute baby flounder we seined from Goddard Memorial State Park.

Alicia Beauvais | Roger Williams University

DNA Barcoding of Rhode Island Polysiphonia and related taxa Mentor: Brian Wysor Majors: Marine Biology/Environmental Science Expected graduation: May 2018 Career path: Professor/Research SURF project: We are studying a family of red algae, Rhodomelaceae, that inhabits Rhode Island waters, along with many other coastlines around the world. Mostly we are looking at dried, preserved specimens stored at Roger Williams University.

We are trying to understand how populations of these red algae in Rhode Island may be changing over time, under the pressure of climate change and warming waters, or invasive species. Part of this project is to create a better understanding of the diagnostic features of these species, to aid in identification in the future. Another major part of this project is molecular work with DNA. We are sequencing the DNA of many specimens to provide a record of Rhodomelaceae present in Rhode Island, based on molecular identification. This will serve as a basis for understanding any genetic changes in future populations.

One goal of this project is to write a key to help other phycology students identify members of the Rhodomelaceae by species. The larger goal is to establish an understanding of the Rhodomelaceae of Rhode Island.

Why SURF: I was very interested in this project specifically, as I took a phycology class and really enjoyed the challenge of the field. It is exciting to tackle a new project and to learn new things, gaining skills and experiences that are not always possible during the school year. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to be a part of the SURF program. It has definitely afforded me experiences above and beyond what I expected, both in and outside of the lab.

The impact: SURF has been a great experience, being able to fully immerse myself in a project. I’ve gained full-time research experience, and I feel like I’ve learned many things about being a scientist that just aren’t apparent in a normal classroom setting. I’m now sure that full-time research is an enjoyable and rewarding career path for me.

Most memorable research moment: My favorite moments in the lab, as boring as it sounds, are when everything goes as planned. With this family of red algae, identifications are not always easy, often requiring a keen eye under the microscope. The most rewarding thing is finding a specimen that perfectly fits the description for its species, which is not always possible. Small victories like these renew my confidence and make for a rewarding day of work.

Samuel Costa | University of Rhode Island

Utilizing metabolomics to identify emerging toxins in cyanobacteria blooms Mentor: Matthew Bertin Major: Biological Sciences Expected graduation: May 2018 Career path: Graduate school; natural products research SURF project: we are trying to identify compounds in a species of single-celled plankton from three blooms found in the Gulf of Mexico. We hope that these compounds may have anti-cancer properties. At the start of the program, we expected to find some overlap in the kinds of compounds within the blooms, since they were from the same species and general area. What we’re finding is that, while there is some similarity in the two most northern blooms, the compounds in the southernmost bloom are completely different. At this point, it’s hard to predict what will happen, but that’s part of why I find this research so fascinating!

Why SURF: I saw the SURF program as a great way to gain research experience, discern my career path, and make myself more marketable to potential employers.

The impact: The program has been extremely informative, and a lot of fun! I’m learning a lot about what work in a laboratory setting is like, and I’ve gained valuable experience working with the equipment. I’ve learned about HPLC, NMR, cell replication, rotary evaporation, and plenty of other techniques as well. Plus, the SURF program has helped me a great deal in discerning my future career path. SURF is an incredible opportunity, and I highly recommend it to anyone considering a career in scientific research. Even if you’re uncertain about what field you want to go into, or if you’re not sure if you even want to go into research, the SURF program can help you to decide where your interests lie.

Most memorable research moment: Probably when we ran the samples I was working with through HPLC (High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography); it was really cool to finally see my work being translated into interpretable data.

“I wanted to get a real, hands-on working experience that would be invaluable time spent for my future career. SURF offered me that experience through research in the field and lab.�

Evan Ernst | University of Rhode Island

The chemical effects of sea lettuce on co-occurring macro-algae Mentor/lab: Lindsay Green/Carol Thornber Major: Marine Biology Expected graduation: 2019 Career path: Undetermined SURF project: We are trying to isolate a chemical released by sea lettuce and see how it effects the growth rate of other seaweed living within the same area. The outcome expected is to see the growth rate of other seaweed species to be inhibit by the chemical release by we lettuce.

Why SURF: I wanted to get a real, hands-on working experience that would be invaluable time spent for my future career. SURF offered me that experience through research in the field and lab. I also wanted to learn and build a skill set through research that I could apply later on in my career.

The impact: This has been a once in a life time experience. This is my first time working on a research project within the lab and field setting and has opened me up to a whole new world of future career possibilities. This program has given me as I said before a skill set within the laboratory that I can carry on into my future studies and work where ever I may end up.

Most memorable research moment: There is no one single most memorable research moment because they are all memorable. One thing about working in a lab and with research, in general, is that it's constantly changing and there is always something new and challenging waiting to be asked and discovered by scientist. Each day is a unique experience, which makes almost everyday memorable.

“I learn something new each day and my lab skills have improved a lot.

This program is allowing me to gain valuable experience, research skills and is helping me narrow down what I want to do in the future.�

Brooke Fenderson | Roger Williams University

Ecology and evolution of marine viruses and cyanobacteria in Narragansett Bay Mentor: Marcie Marston Major: Biology Expected graduation: 2019 Career path: Undetermined SURF project: To understand how climate change could impact viral and cyanobacterial communities in Narragansett Bay. I am expecting that viral community composition will be different in water with warmer temperatures. The viral diversity and species richness will likely be different as well.

Why SURF: I enjoy working in the laboratory setting and I am interested in viruses.

The impact: I have really enjoyed my experience and I am very thankful for this opportunity. I learn something new each day and my lab skills have improved a lot. This program is allowing me to gain valuable experience, research skills and is helping me narrow down what I want to do in the future.

Most memorable research moment: The day I traveled to different bays across Rhode Island to collect water samples. It was very interesting to see how the water environment differed in each location and it was an all around great day.

Natalie Gambrell | Roger Williams University

Rapid determination of halogenated hydrocarbon transformations from in situ sediment cores by HPLC/IC and GC/MS Mentor: Stephen O’Shea Major: Biochemistry Expected graduation: May 2018 Career goal: Research SURF project: Soil samples were taken from marine and fresh water sites to compare the soil composition and the pore water taken from the samples. The samples were looked at to see if ion spikes could be observed on different instruments. The hope is that we will see certain ions (I, Br, and F) which indicate that the compounds in the soil are metabolizing/degrading. The experiment uses the pore water collected, soil samples, and the gas emitted from the other experiments to determine if the CFC’s are degrading like we hope.

Why SURF: I wanted to experience a full-time research position. I plan on doing research full time after graduate school and this program confirmed that I like the research environment as a full-time position. I also liked that it gives me the opportunity to meet other researchers from all over the state.

The impact: I have had the opportunity to learn about multiple new instruments and help create and problem shoot procedures to collect data for our research.

Most memorable research moment: Collecting samples for research was the most memorable aspect of my research so far. I went out on a boat with some fellow researchers, donned some waders, and jumped in the bay. After all the sample collections, I ended up with mud on my arms and face. The collections brought the opportunity to add some field work into my list of experiences that the SURF program has given me.

“I like that the SURF internship has other events associated with it, such as a scientific fish trawl, seminars and talks. I have found all these events to be very informative, particularly the seminars about designing a scientific poster and applying to graduate school.”

Mentor: Adria Updike Majors: Biology, Engineering Expected graduation: May 2019 Career path: Biomedical engineer SURF project: Oysters play a significant role in the ecosystem, filtering the water column that they inhabit and removing inorganic and organic matter. Oysters, along with other shellfish are also economically important, accounting for nearly a third of global aquaculture as they are a sustainable, high-quality source of protein. However, water quality and harmful algae blooms can significantly impact the health of oysters. We are working to design a low-cost, open-source sensor that oyster farmers in developing nations can deploy to monitor the water quality in their oyster beds. The sensor will help predict when the oysters are healthy so that farmers do not go through the expensive process of harvesting unhealthy oysters. The ultimate goal is to have the sensor predict oyster fitness utilizing measurements such as algae biomass, salinity, temperature and turbidity. This summer, we hope to produce a prototype sensor that measures the intensity of fluorescence (the emission of light by a substance that has absorbed light) of algae based on chlorophyll content.

Why SURF: During the school year, I have worked on research projects, but I am too busy with school work to fully devote as much time as I would like to do research. I wanted to have the experience of working in a lab and doing research full time. I also wanted to develop my critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as I think these are necessary to excel in the classroom and in a professional environment in the future.

Rebecca Gow | Roger Williams University Designing and testing of oyster health sensor

The impact: I have learned how to build circuits, write simple code, critically read long scientific articles and collect and process data. I also think I have become more effective at articulating complex scientific topics in a more clear and concise manner. I like that every day is not just working in the lab, and that the SURF internship has other events associated with it, such as a scientific fish trawl, seminars and talks. I have found all these events to be very informative, particularly the seminars about designing a scientific poster and applying to graduate school.

Most memorable research moment: In the past, I have conducted research on corals. The first time I was on coral cleaning duty, I was surprised to find out that the most effective way to clean the corals was with a toothbrush. I realized science is not always “high-tech” and it’s all about being creative to figure out what works the best.

Sara Hunt | Roger Williams University Migration studies of Entamoeba varieties

Mentor: Avelina Espinosa Majors: Biology, Chemistry Expected graduation: Spring 2019 Career path: Undetermined SURF project: I spent this summer studying the migration behaviors of Entamoeba strains. To do this, I worked with my lab partner to design a three-chambered setup using three microcentrofuge tubes and plastic tubing to connect the three tubes.

The center tube was filled with cells of one Entamoeba strain while each of the side tubes were filled with conditioned media of either the same strain or a different strain of Entamoeba. Conditioned media is simply the liquid media that Entamoeba cells were grown in, without the cells. The conditioned media contains signaling proteins left behind by the cells. By analyzing the migration of the cells towards or away from its own conditioned media, more can be understood about the signaling molecules present in media and the pathogenesis of the parasite..

Why SURF: I wanted to participate in the SURF program to get experience doing research. I am currently trying to decide what career I would like and getting experience in research will help me make that decision. I also was excited to learn new lab skills and gain independence by working on my own project through SURF. The impact: I have learned a lot not only about the work going on in this lab, but also about the process of doing research. I started off the summer by making a schedule for myself that had the dates that I planned on finishing each part of my project. Within the first week, I had already run into a few roadblocks with my experiment that slowed my progress significantly. The process was not nearly as straightforward as I anticipated, and I ended up with many questions about my work. Most of this summer has been spent asking questions and then finding the answers and I have learned a lot through this process. I think that SURF has given me a good idea of what scientific research is like.

Most memorable research moment: I started my summer by designing a three-chamber setup to hold Entamoeba.

The first, the second and probably the third and fourth attempts to design this setup still had many flaws and the project was taking me a lot longer than I expected it to. In each situation, I dealt with leaks in the tubes, bacterial contamination or other design flaws. I talked to friends outside of lab to get more ideas and I collaborated with my lab partner to eventually come up with a new design each time that I had a problem. After many tries, I filled the center tube of the most recently designed three-chambered set up with cells and let it sit in the incubator. I checked the tubes about 3 days later and they were filled with viable cells. While this may seem like an everyday accomplishment to many, it was very exciting to see that something I designed was successful.

“I feel like I am a part of something much bigger than myself.”

Kiserian Jackson | Roger Williams University

Correlation of oyster disease with Vibrio parahaemolyticus accumulation in oyster tissues Mentor: Roxanna Smolowitz Majors: Biology, Chemistry Expected graduation: May 2018 Career path: Undetermined

SURF project: To try and find a correlation between the bacteria Vibrio parahaemolyticus (Vp) and Vibrio vulnificus (Vv) and disease level in the Eastern Oyster. When humans eat raw oysters that have accumulated Vp or Vv, they can experience the stomach flu which can include symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

Keeping oysters healthy and Vp and Vv free helps us as consumers, lowering our chances of getting sick. But to lower those chances we must know how Vp and Vv grow. We know that temperature can affect growth of the bacteria, but it is also being considered if Vp and Vv growth on an oyster also increases when the animal is already sick from disease. There are three common diseases that infect oysters, Dermo, MSX, and SSO. I am trying to determine disease level in individual oysters as well as determining how much Vp and Vv there is in the tissue of the oyster. I will then take these numerical values to try and find a relationship to see if Vp and Vv accumulation is affected by the disease in an animal.

Why SURF: I feel like I am a part of something much bigger than myself. Life is all about taking the opportunities given to you, and the SURF program is definitely an opportunity I could not miss. The program will not only better me as a person now, but better my work ethic, how I work with others, and my own understanding of science. I was in the program last year and it was so beneficial that I just had to do it again. Even as a second year SURF student, I feel that I am learning so much. Everyone I have met through this program, all the knowledge I have learned, all the experience I have gained — all come together to make this summer one of the best in my life.

The impact: This summer has allowed me to keep building my lab experience. After being introduced to a lab last summer and learning the basics, I have continued working and cultivating what I know in the lab. This summer really enforced what I know and helped me improve. I feel like I am getting a full experience this summer with the program. I am being taught new methods, helping others learn new things, and just soaking in all this knowledge.

Most memorable research moment: Using the lab’s new homogenizer to grind up oyster tissue. Nothing feels better than opening the box to a new piece of equipment and being the first person to use it.

“It’s amazing to watch the different paths and new ideas research can take on while simply searching for your data. The SURF program really allows us to get a feel for the research world by allowing us to connect with other research teams and discuss our work.”

Hannah Johnson | Providence College

Bio-fluid interactions of flexible animal propulsors

Mentor: John H Costello Major: Biology/NESC (Neuroscience) Expected graduation: May 2019 Career path: Marine biologist; conduct research on marine life behavior, open an independent research aquarium SURF project: Our team is looking to find movement patterns between different phyla of terrestrial and marine organisms. We believe that animals provide humans with a natural, less-taxing and more energy efficient ways to move.

We are investigating the placement of animals’ limbs, the way these limbs interact with one another and the environment around them to move as well as the efficiency of movement in this particular way. We hope to later build equations off of these patterns and, with the help of engineers and physicists, build machines such as cars, boats, submarines, drones, etc. that will use less fuel and energy to move as well as aid in the safety and health of our planet.

Why SURF: I thought the SURF program would help to not only connect me with new colleagues and friends in the Biology world, but also give me a chance to expand my knowledge. I really love how much hands-on experience undergraduates get to utilize through this program. I believed the SURF program would aid in my hopes and dreams for the future.

The impact: It’s really awesome to come into this team that has been working hard for the past three years on this project and be able to contribute. It’s amazing to watch the different paths and new ideas research can take on while simply searching for your data. The SURF program really allows us to get a feel for the research world by allowing us to connect with other research teams and discuss our work.

Most memorable research moment: My most memorable research moment was when the team and I went to find more ctenophores. We had our buckets, net and the rest of the equipment to get the marine organisms. However, we forgot to look at the weather and prepare for it. We were stuck fishing for the ctenophores in the pouring rain without any rain gear until we found garbage bags that we used to cut holes in for our heads!

Danielle Jordan | University of Rhode Island Disease defense trade-offs in selectively bred oysters

Mentor: Tal Ben-Horin Major: Marine Biology Expected graduation: May 2018 Career path: Research scientist/professor SURF project: To develop new methodological and statistical tools for quantifying resistance and tolerance in oysters. I expect that it will be minutely easier to develop a method for quantifying resistance as opposed to tolerance, as more research has been conducted in animal resistance, so there is more prior work to base our methods upon.

Why SURF: I felt that the SURF program would give me a unique opportunity to develop a research project alongside a mentor so that I would get a true feel for what my future career would be like while having the benefit of a mentor to guide me along the way.

The impact: I have learned significantly more than I expected to — and I entered the internship expecting to learn a lot — and I feel like I am accomplishing my exact purpose for applying to the SURF program.

Most memorable research moment: My most memorable research moment had to be when my mentor and I spent an entire day preparing our oysters for the treatment. We had to individually weigh, dry, label, and notch (drill a small hole in the shell for inoculation into the adductor muscle) more than 100 oysters. It took quite a while to finish the task, but we quickly developed a rhythm. It was the same for when we had to individually inject all 100 oysters.

Gabrielle Kuba | Salve Regina University The genomics of green macroalgal blooms

Mentor: JD Swanson Major: Biology Expected graduation: May 2018 Career path: Researcher, marine biology SURF project: In the past decade there has been a noticeable increase of macroalgae in Narragansett Bay, RI. The two main species found include Ulva compressa and Ulva rigida. The extensive proliferation of these species have begun to form Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) that outcompete other species in the same environment for sunlight and nutrients. We are looking first at the population dynamics of the around the Bay to identify the individuals forming the blooms. This will allow us to further address the cause of the increase in bloom size by being able to determine how many mutated individuals make up this problem. A second goal of this project includes addressing the effect that bacteria may have on the macroalgae in the Bay. Why SURF: I wanted to participate in the SURF program this year because of my experience in the program my past two summers. The program allowed me to focus completely on the research project and explore more deeply what research truly entails as a career path. The SURF program has been extremely important in the light of my future and it’s something I have been more than lucky to participate in for the past three summers because of the doors it has opened for me, as well as the people with whom I have had the opportunity to meet and work alongside.

The impact: The program has allowed me to be able to expand on my knowledge in the project. It has given me the opportunity to recall topics that I have previously visited throughout classes and given me the chance to learn new techniques and skills. Being involved in the SURF program also has allowed me to experience so much more in my college years and truly get a lot more out of it.

Most memorable research moment: We were collecting seaweed at the beginning of the summer and one of the residents who has lived near Oakland Beach in Warwick, RI, for many years introduced himself to us and described what he has witnessed with macroalgal blooms. This conversation provided information on the patterns that the sea lettuce has exhibited over the years and filled me with a greater sense of purpose — it showed that there are people in the community who are directly affected by the blooms of sea lettuce throughout Narragansett Bay.

Emma Lederer | Providence College

Bio-fluid interactions of flexible animal propulsors Mentor: Jack Costello Major: Biology Expected graduation: May, 2018 Career path: Research scientist SURF project: This summer we have been studying the mechanics of movement in animals that use a bendable pectoral propulsor to swim or fly. We do this by measuring various aspects of an animal’s movement, and looking how all the individual pieces work together to make the animal move the way it does. Animals are very energy-efficient movers, so being able to fully understand their movement strategies and adapt them to human machinery would create more energy efficient and maneuverable machines. We expect that pectoral propulsor placement is similar across many different groups of species, such as birds, bats, cetaceans, insects, and mollusks.

Why SURF: The SURF program provided me with a chance to have an immersive summer research experience that I couldn’t have gotten if I worked directly through my school to receive funding.

The impact: This summer I have been very busy with my research, but I have been working on writing a summer blog about my experiences, which I believe has helped me a lot as a student and a writer.

Most memorable research moment: Two years ago, when I presented a poster for the first time at the 2015 RI SURF Conference. I saw all the hard work I had done throughout the summer come together and I felt confident and excited to share my findings with others. It helped me realize I want to pursue a Ph.D. and be a research scientist.

“Being a part of a research project that is investigating a current and not wellunderstood subject has given me the autonomy as a scientist to hypothesize and test my questions.�

Emily McDermith | University of Rhode Island

Investigating interactions between bacteria and phytoplankton in the marine environment Mentor: Bethany Jenkins Major: Cell and Molecular Biology Expected graduation: May 2020 Career path: Medical field

SURF project: We are investigating the interactions between microscopic organisms called diatoms and their associated bacteria in the ocean. These tiny phytoplankton serve as a food source for many marine organisms and are important contributors to marine nutrient cycles. Diatoms are unable to fulfill these roles without the micronutrient iron (Fe). The low iron environments in the ocean may be impacted further by climate change. Studying these diatoms and their associated bacteria from iron limited marine environments involves isolating bacteria from the field. In the lab setting we can observe these bacteria under different conditions to gain a better understanding of these marine microbes.

Why SURF: I wanted to take advantage of the unique opportunity the SURF program offers to be fully immersed in a research project. I was excited to learn innovative methods and problem solving techniques to become an independent researcher for my future research and honors project.

The impact: I have learned versatile laboratory techniques and skills such as poster design through the SURF workshop and data analysis through Data Carpentry. Being a part of a research project that is investigating a current and not wellunderstood subject has given me the autonomy as a scientist to hypothesize and test my questions. The ability to discover and solve new problems by designing my own experiments has been a rewarding experience that has given me the handson experience in using the scientific method. Guidance from my mentors and lab mates has taught me how to be a better scientist, especially when obstacles arose. Being a part of the Jenkins’ Lab has shown me the importance of collaboration between researchers. The SURF program offers an opportunity to engage in a valuable scientific experience not readily available in the academic year, and has given me the opportunity to directly relate and solidify my coursework through application in a laboratory setting.

Most memorable research moment: Getting my DNA sequencing results back was a memorable research experience. Finding out the identity of the bacteria I isolated and purified was very rewarding. Being a part of every step of the process made the research exciting and important to me.

Ana McMenamin | University of Rhode Island

Genetic improvement for Dermo resistance in eastern oysters: Incorporating large scale disease challenges in a multi-trait selection program Mentor: Dina Proestou Major: Marine Biology Expected graduation: May 2020 Career path: Marine biology researcher, possibly professor SURF project: We are looking at how the dermo disease affects different family lines of oysters. These oysters have been selectively bred and then injected with dermo. The end goal in to see in some families are more tolerant or are more resistant to dermo. We expect that some families will have higher dermo levels than others throughout the experiment, particularly families that had high mortality rates.

Why SURF: The SURF program as a whole seemed like an awesome experience and a great way to meet other aspiring scientists. This project, in particular, sparked my interest because I have worked with oysters before and this experiment is helping to further my knowledge.

The impact: The people I am working with are incredible and I have learned a lot of lab techniques. I never really saw myself as a lab rat, I prefer field work, which is actually why I was so excited to get into a lab. I feel like I have gathered a better understanding of where oyster research is going and am happy to build this connection to these scientists.

Most memorable research moments: 1) The time I found a pea crab in an oyster tissue sample. I got super excited and it reminded me that the work I’m doing is closely related to field work. I still have the crab in a little tube. 2) The introduction to the Nanodrop 8000; I thought it was so cool I had to call my dad after work and tell him. 3) The first time I did a successful qPCR because I felt super accomplished.

Emma Nassaney | Eckerd College

Crab burrows and their effect on greenhouse gas fluxes in Rhode Island salt marshes Mentor/lab: Katelyn Szura/ Serena Moseman-Valtierra SURF project: Humans cause many problems for the environment. In the salt marsh, human activity has increased crab populations, especially the purple marsh crab. The purple marsh crab eats away at the plant life in the marsh, which leads to marsh deterioration. The purple marsh crab is not the only crab that lives in the marsh, but all of the crabs found within the marsh are burrowers. These burrow networks can be quite extensive throughout the marsh. Previous studies in the marsh habitat have looked at how crabs affect the plant life within the marsh, but they have not focused on how the crabs affect the greenhouse gas fluxes within the marsh.

Why SURF: I wanted to participate in the SURF program to gain experience in the lab. My school is very small; about 2000 students total and there are about 100 students within the Marine Science program fighting to work with eight professors. Those numbers do not allow for me to have guaranteed lab experience at my college.

As a Rhode Island resident, I applied for the SURF program because I wanted to conduct research within the state’s environment and see more of what Rhode Island has to offer because much of my marine science knowledge is focused on the Gulf of Mexico.

The impact: I love being able to go out into the field and work directly with the environment instead of being cooped up in a lab doing experiments and testing. Being involved in the program has allowed me to work with equipment that I never would have been exposed to such as Gas Chromotography, and a cavity ring down spectroscopy analyzer (Model G2508, Picarro).

Most memorable research experience: When I was out in the marsh with Kate and we were walking through this one section that had a large hole in it. I did not realize the size or depth of the hole at the time and thought that I would be able to reach the other side of it unscathed. I was so wrong. I missed the landing by a foot and my boot sank right into the hole past my knee. My boot was filled with water and my sock was soaked.

From then on, I learned that no matter where you are in the marsh, there could be a hole or really deep mud and to constantly watch my footing.

“My experience this summer has been extraordinary. Every day in the lab is different and I am constantly learning new protocols, skills and techniques from my peers and advisors.�

Skyler Roberts | Roger Williams University

Determination of the location of Vibrio parahaemolyticus in oyster tissues Mentor: Roxanna Smolowitz Majors: Marine Biology, Environmental Science Expected graduation: May 2019 Career path: Marine Biologist

SURF project: This project is an attempt to locate where within the tissue of oysters the bacteria Vibrio parahaemolyticus (Vp) resides. Although Vp is nonpathogenic to the oysters,Vp can cause sickness in humans who consume oysters. Locating the residing place of the bacteria can potentially give insight to methods of flushing it out. If it is found through colored staining that the bacteria is located mainly on the surface of the mantle cavity and not embedded deep within connective tissues, then methods to flush the Vp out of the oyster can be utilized.

We expect to find that the Vp lives on the mucus covered surface of the mantle cavity within the oyster, or on the cilia within the digestive tract.

Why SURF: I wanted to get a better understanding of how research is conducted and to gain more experience working inside a laboratory and getting familiar with scientific instruments. I also wanted to learn more about networking and how to utilize scientific writing to acquire new strategies and skills.

The impact: My experience this summer has been extraordinary. Every day in the lab is different and I am constantly learning new protocols, skills and techniques from my peers and advisors. The SURF program has given me hands-on experience that I could never obtain from just listening to a class lecture. I also have met new people who share similar educational goals and I have gained the opportunity to think more in depth about my future career goals in a scientific research environment. This program truly has allowed me to delve deeper into research then I ever could have before.

Most memorable research moment: When I was in the middle of doing a DNA extraction and a giant spider fell from the ceiling and landed directly in the middle of my protocol sheet.

Lauren Salisbury | University of Rhode Island

Phylogenetic diversity of the Southern Ocean diatom community Mentor/lab: Laura Filliger, Bethany Jenkins Major: Marine Biology Expected graduation: May 2018 Career path: Cetologist SURF project: Diatoms are phytoplankton that are responsible for about half of the ocean’s primary production. My research focuses on the diatom populations of the Southern Ocean near the Western Antarctic Peninsula. This research aims to expand current knowledge of the community structure and physiological adaptations of these diatom populations. DNA was extracted from single-species diatom cultures called isolates.

To identify the cultures to species level, well established barcoding genes were used in addition to SANGER sequencing. The taxonomic reference library NCBI BLAST was used to compare DNA of cultures with database reference sequences. A phylogenetic tree of species data was produced. The growth of certain species was monitored to establish growth rates for later physiological experiments. Based on previous experiments, we expected to see certain genera like Thalassiosira, Fragilariopsis, and Pseudo-nitzschia, to name a few.

Why SURF: I wanted to learn new lab skills and because I wanted to conduct research in a field I have not yet experienced. Throughout my undergraduate career, I have made it a goal of mine to be an interdisciplinary scientist. My previous research experiences involved animal husbandry, invertebrate community ecology, and the impacts of oyster aquaculture. The SURF program has given me the opportunity to delve in the field of microbiology and environmental genomics.

The impact: This program has given me an opportunity to be a part of an intensive and worthwhile research experience. Working in a diverse atmosphere with the different students, professors, and lab employees of the Cell and Molecular Biology department has also been a rewarding part of this experience. Learning new research techniques and lab skills have helped me to build my resume and graduate school portfolio.

Most memorable research experience: My first successful DNA extraction.

“My SURF experience has taught me to learn independently and to problem solve.”

Olivia Sherman | Salve Regina University The genomics of green macroalgal blooms

Mentor: JD Swanson Major: Biology Expected graduation: May 2018 Career path: Physician SURF project: Green algal blooms have become more problematic as they cover the surfaces of the coastal waters and kill the species living underneath. We are looking at the transcriptomic composition of two different species of green algae — Ulva compressa and Ulva rigida — to identify the gene expression during peak bloom season in the Narragansett Bay area. By using primers for known genes, we can identify variations in the gene expression levels for genes involved in replication and photosynthesis. Understanding the genome dynamics of the bloom in the Narragansett Bay hopefully will allow us to further study the causes of variance in the expression levels.

Why SURF: I wanted to learn more about what the research field has to offer and work closely with experienced professors to better my lab skills and practice scientific techniques.

The impact: My SURF experience has taught me to learn independently and to problem solve. Being a part of this program allows me to constantly think on my feet while practicing skills I have already learned and apply them to new lab techniques and data analysis that I will be able to use in my future studies and career.

Most memorable research moment: When I was able to set up and run a qPCR test on my own and get reputable data. This helped to assure my understanding of the work I was doing and following careful practices. It also allowed for independent thinking and critical analysis of the dataset.

“The SURF program is unique from any other fellowship program.

The resources it provides to its fellows are useful for teaching undergraduates how to excel in real-world situations in the sciences.”

Evelyn Siler | University of Rhode Island

The effects of climate change on protein expression in sea squirts (Ciona intestinalis) Mentor: Steve Irvine Major; minor: Cell and Molecular Biology (Biochemistry);Chemistry Expected graduation: December 2017 Career path: Genetics research SURF project: To determine how the genetics of a local marine invertebrate called a sea squirt (Ciona intestinalis) will be affected by climate change. As we know, our DNA is the same in every cell of our bodies. However, what separates one cell type from another is how these genes are expressed to produce different proteins in different cells. Similarly, protein expression can vary significantly in even one type of cell when exposed to different conditions. Therefore, an ovary cell in one organism reared in a warmer climate will have different amounts of proteins than the same type of cell in other organisms. This is the phenomenon we are exploring in the Irvine Lab. We are looking at sea squirts grown up at 14°, 18°, and 22°C and comparing the amounts of various proteins detected in ovarian cells at each temperature. We will also be evaluating the viability of the offspring under stressful conditions to determine if the increased temperature affects how well the sea squirt embryos are able to cope. We will place the embryos in low salinity, slightly acidic sea water and compare the number of healthy larvae at each temperature. Together, these genetics and hatch-rate experiments will allow us to predict how sea squirts and other marine life will be affected the impacts of climate change.

Why SURF: I first heard about SURF through a friend who was in the program while I was working with her in a lab last summer. She told me about all of the great opportunities SURF offers, and brought me along to some of the seminars.

It seemed like a great opportunity so I was excited to apply.

The impact: Unforgettable. I finally have a feel for what it is like to work in a lab full-time, and I can't get enough of it.

Each progression we make in our research provides a new obstacle for us to overcome, which has kept it very interesting. With each passing week I grow used to the ever-present challenges posed by our experiments, and I become much more capable of coming up with solutions to them. That lesson, in addition to the other learning opportunities the SURF program has provided, has definitely made this fellowship an invaluable experience in my undergraduate career.

Most memorable research experience: When I made a suggestion about the way our specimens were fastened inside the tank, which I thought was silly at the time. It turned out to be the solution to one of the biggest setbacks in our temperature experiments, and solving it allowed us to move forward with the project in the weeks following.

Mentors: Mindy Levine, Dan Jones Majors: Chemistry, Physics Expected graduation: Spring 2020 Career path: Professor/full time researcher SURF project: We are trying to utilize color changing systems with fluorescent conjugated polymers to detect BPA and other common derivatives in low levels of concentration. Hopefully, the color changing systems will work for us and allow us to develop a commercially available device for consumers so that they can detect BPA in drinking water, food, etc.

Why SURF: I wanted to further my laboratory skills, become more independent in the lab, and be able to approach a problem from a different standpoint and try to solve it.

The impact: Prior to my SURF experience this summer, I worked in the Levine lab through the spring semester. Being in the SURF program has allowed me to continue parts of my research while also learning new techniques that I can apply to my future research in organic sensing. The SURF program allowed me to put myself in a lab environment full time and confirmed my desire to go on to graduate school for organic chemistry.

I also have grown more independent and learned more skills that will help my research in organic chemistry moving forward.

Most memorable research moment: What gets me most excited about research is putting together the data after running experiments and analyzing it to see if what we did was successful or if there are any tweaks that need to be made.  

Ryan Vallee | University of Rhode Island Detection of BPA in marine environments

“Being in the SURF program has allowed me to continue parts of my research while also learning new techniques that I can apply to my future research in organic sensing. The SURF program allowed me to put myself in a lab environment full time and confirmed my desire to go on to graduate school for organic chemistry.�

Xuefei Yang | Rhode Island School of Design

How can public engagement in marine conservation be enhanced through novel representations of aquatic organisms and ecosystems?

Mentors: Jennifer Bissonnette, Neal Overstrom Major: Industrial Design Expected graduation: 2019 Career path: Industrial/visual designer SURF project: We are trying to encourage the public to be more educated and enthusiastic about marine biology concepts and the ecosystem. We are making a website based on our experience in field works, creating artistic responses to our findings and sharing our process of creation. We are hoping that through these contents our audience, mainly children and young teenagers with their parents, would find marine concepts intriguing and marine conservation important.

Why SURF: One of the key aspects of my design ethics is to help solve environmental issues and promoting conservation. I realize that it is more than just the designer’s job to provide the public a solution for sustainability while the public stays in a mode of passive consumption. It is more important to engage the public with this topic in a more solid and approachable way; to be involved in creative problem solving. And that’s the reason why I am working on this project right now.

The impact: This summer, I had the chance to do so many exciting things that I have never done before. It was my first time sailing for a fish trawl, joining a BioBlitz and working with all the scientists, hunting for amphipods and feeding the cuttlefish, seeing a whale within two yards, doing seining and a plankton tow, and so on. In this program, I have learned so many different ways to re-observe our environment and explore Rhode Island. This program has been completely out of my field of knowledge and definitely provides me with important insights in working cross-boundary between art and science.

Most memorable research moment: When we were visiting Beavertail State Park, one of the chosen parks for our location-based project, we found the juvenile humpback washed ashore and thought of the idea of creating a newspaper for him. That gave us the insight that we want to share what we found unique and exciting through media that is specific to that content, and, therefore, people also would empathize with that feeling. Being responsive to field works made our process of creating artworks much more flexible, free and fun for us, and we wish the enjoyment of making fun projects will come across to our audience, too.

“SURF, with an emphasis on research and developing your scientific tool belt, encompasses what I want to continue doing in my future.

Developing important connections while also learning how to overcome obstacles in a research setting has been an invaluable experience.�

Hannah Yi | Brown University Mako shark knifing

Mentor: Bradley Wetherbee (University of Rhode Island) Major: Geology-Biology Expected graduation: June 2018 Career path: Academia, professorship SURF project: To better understand mako surfacing, or knifing, events. When sharks are tagged with pop-off satellite archival tags (PSATs), satellites triangulate the location of the shark every time it comes to the surface and this is recorded as a ping. The maps you frequently see tracking shark movement patterns are done this way. My lab is looking at the frequency of these pings and whether they change depending on the time of day, seasons, size, sex, and latitude. Better understanding when sharks knife can help lead to biological and ecological interpretations.

Why SURF: This program gave me my first hands-on experience in shark research that was not available to me through my institution. SURF, with an emphasis on research and developing your scientific tool belt, encompasses what I want to continue doing in my future. Developing important connections while also learning how to overcome obstacles in a research setting has been an invaluable experience.

The impact: My experience this summer has been one of perseverance and has given me a firsthand look at how things can go wrong during the course of a project. Overall, this experience has taught me more about adaptability and working with what you have. From changing my initial project to continuing to solve issues that arise from equipment and protocol, I have learned that things rarely go as planned, but something valuable and exciting can still be brought into fruition.

Most memorable research moment: Getting out on the water has been my dream since applying to program. Being able to catch, tag, and release such amazing animals is definitely the highlight of the summer, if not a lifetime. Also, it was really exciting to finally be able to put all of our raw data into R and see the results we were hoping for. Actually being able to see differences in the data was rewarding after the long days we spent organizing and working on spreadsheets.