I discovered a novel process by which beaches act as filters that remove bioavailable nitrogen from coastal ecosystems, simultaneously protecting them from eutrophication and contributing greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. These results derive from a 3-year coastal water quality monitoring program that I designed, was awarded funding by the US EPA to carry out, and independently managed from installation through completion.

I taught five sections of a marine science lab. I guided students through each lab activity, helped them learn to solve problems independently, and designed and graded assessments of student learning.I also mentored 7 undergraduate students (including 4 women and 2 underrepresented minorities) in the lab as they conducted water quality research using analytical chemistry. I trained these students in sample and data analysis, instrument use and care, and laboratory safety. Individual students authored two poster presentation and two final papers under my direction.

I was a student in the Microbial Oceanography summer course at the Center for Microbial Oceanography. I participated in lectures, discussions, and symposia where I learned about the function of microorganisms in the ocean, from genomes to biomes. I participated in a weeklong research cruise, including sample and data analysis, and led the team of students who presented our findings in a poster at the 2011 ASLO meeting.