OUTER BACK COVER
Mark Olson, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My research is in Molecular Tectonics, which develops
and manipulates switchable self-assembling molecular
architectures by way of subtle synthetic transformations. We investigate
the role of accumulating long range non-covalent interactions and electrostatics in
macromolecules and how these forces and interactions affect the thermodynamic
equilibrium and kinetics of self-assembly in solution, on surfaces, and at the solventnanoparticle interface. We seek students interested in materials chemistry and
molecular nanotechnology. Current projects include the development of switchable
donor-acceptor based ternary micellar systems, switchable self-assembling multiwalled carbon nanotube networks, and reprogrammable self-assembling binary and
ternary donor-acceptor polymer blends. Must have at least one semester of organic
chemistry and exceptional course marks.
JOB NUMBER:
Frank Pezold Ph.D.
Professor and Dean of the College
of Science and Engineering
[email protected]
The study of fish diversity and its conservation is a vibrant area of
research from the population level to the recovery of evolutionary
phylogenies. Using both morphological and
molecular methods, graduate and undergraduate students in my lab are currently 1)
investigating the population dynamics and genetics of sicydiine gobies and the
evolution of their specialized feeding habits, 2) studying genetic and morphological
diversity of gobies in the genus Eviota, and African pygmy sleepers (Kribia), 3)
studying the evolution of amphidromy in gobioid fishes, and 4) constructing a GIS
taxonomic and ecological database of the freshwater and mangrove fishes of Guinea,
West Africa.
Jennifer Pollack, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My research focuses on the conservation and
restoration of marine and estuarine organisms
and habitats. My lab is involved in: reef oyster restoration;
ecosystem service assessments of restored oyster reefs; comparison of the relative
value of estuarine habitats for fishes and macroinvertebrates; food web analyses of
oysters and reef-associated species; disease dynamics in oyster populations; effects of
ocean acidification on early larval development of estuarine finfishes. Spatial analysis
and mapping to select suitable locations for oyster reef restoration; creation and
facilitation of an oyster shell recycling program for the Texas Coastal Bend; and
development of outreach and educational tools for coastal conservation and reef
restoration. There is a strong field-based component, which is supported by
laboratory analyses as well as GIS and modeling applications. Our goal is to provide
science-based information to manage ecologically and economically important species
and habitats.
Brandi Kiel Reese, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
I am interested in the microbial ecology of extreme environments,
including deeply buried marine sediment and hydrothermal vents. My
research uses the structure and function of Bacteria, Archaea, and even fungal
communities to better understand the limits of life and survival mechanisms in the deep
subsurface. We use state-of-the-art sequencing techniques for metagenome and
transcriptome analysis coupled with geochemistry to understand the biogeochemical
cycling of novel microorganisms. Opportunities are available for local field sampling or
cruises, experimental approaches (cultivation, microcosm, next generation sequencing),
and bioinformatics of existing data.
Alexey Sadovski, Ph.D.
Professor
[email protected]
I am interested in Mathematical Modeling of natural phenomena.
My recent research deals with the modeling of the precise Geoid
in the coastal areas and with the modeling of the vegetation processes
in the marshlands. Working with me includes reading research papers, participating in
research seminars, working with software to model different phenomena,
presentations at conferences, and possible publication of papers. Undergraduates
should have knowledge of basic mathematics and sciences.
John Scarpa, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
My research focuses on determining the cultivation requirements of
aquatic organisms for food, stock enhancement/restoration efforts,
ornamental hobby, and pharmaceuticals. Requirements may range
from basic determination of salinity-range tolerance to breeding for
specific traits. An additional area of research is examining the potential of tunicates
for bioremediation of detrimental microalgal and bacterial blooms . Prospective
students should contact me to discuss their scientific training background and be
willing to commit to a seven-day-a-week schedule while caring for organisms or
conducting experiments.
Petru-Aurelian Simionescu, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
Research interest: analysis, design and optimization of mechanical
systems; applications of nonlinear programming and evolutionary
algorithms to mechanical design; CAD and computer graphics;
sustainable energy. Expected competence from students: 3D modeling using a CAD
package/computer programming/general machine shop experience.
Lee Smee, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
My research is based in the area of ecology, marine biology, and
biology, and animal behavior. Within the area of animal behavior,
there is a particular emphasis on chemical signaling in aquatic systems.
Jean Sparks, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
I conduct research incorporating, in particular, therapeutic plants
and their effects on mammalian cell viability and determining
whether they inhibit the growth of tumor cells. Undergraduates with an
interest in botany, tissue culture, and traditional medicine who have some basic lab
skills are encouraged to contact me.
Michael J. Starek, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
Assistant Professor of Engineering and GIS with a specialization in
geospatial sensing and analytics focused on coastal-environmental problem
domains. Areas of research include UAVs for surveying and mapping, light detection and
ranging, geomatics, and spatial analytics.
Greg Stunz, Ph.D.
Harte Research Institute Chair & Professor
[email protected]
I specialize in fisheries ecology and sport-fisheries. A major focus of my
research program is to provide scientific data for sustainable management
of our marine fisheries and ocean resources to ensure
healthy environments. My research program currently focuses on migration patterns
of marine life using a variety of state-of-the-art electronic tracking devices such as
satellite and acoustic tags; how marine animals interact with their habitats; and the
vital role that estuaries and near-shore waters play in sustaining marine populations.
Specifically, the research includes understanding the roles of apex predators (i.e.,
sharks) in Gulf ecosystems and tracking their movement patterns; dolphin-fish
migration patterns and life history studies; red snapper ecology and management; and
several projects dealing with estuarine fishes, such as spotted seatrout and red drum
and their sustainable management, and many others.
Magesh Thiyagarajan, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
We specialize in fundamental cold plasma science and engineering
areas as well as applied cold plasma research in interdisciplinary
areas of engineering, biology, chemistry and physics. Projects include
design, construction and diagnostics of various plasma sources; Plasma induced
surface modification and characterization of materials such as bio-polymers;
diagnostic measurements and characterization of laser plasma induced nanofluids
(nanoparticles suspended in liquids); Plasma induced cancer treatment; induction of
apoptosis in cancer and tumor cells through a range of diagnostics; plasma induced
wound healing and wound sterilization; and plasma induced inactivation of wider
range of bacteria on liquids and solid surfaces related to health care, food safety and
security. Junior or senior level students from engineering, biology, chemistry and
physics with good academic standing are preferred.
Philippe Tissot, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
We analyze large data sets and design and implement coastal models
based on hydrodynamic and machine learning techniques. Recent
applications have included water level predictions for navigation; storm
surge predictions during hurricanes; predictions of water temperature,
sea level rises; and the relationships between weather and climate and these
parameters. Undergraduates develop models, statistical or hydrodynamic, and/or put
together and analyze their own data sets. Desired skills include some experience with
programming or familiarity with computational environments such as Matlab and basic
mathematics modeling skills (Cal 1 and/ or University Physics). Other students work
with the staff of the Conrad Blucher Institute to develop georeferenced mobile apps for
cell phones and tablets to visualize model predictions in the field. Programming and GIS
skills required for mobile app projects.
Jeffrey W. Turner, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My laboratory explores connections between oceans and human
health. For example, improved understanding of our oceans can
reduce public health risks and enhance human health. Pathogenic bacterial species of
the Vibrio genus, such as V. cholerae, V. parahaemolyticus and V. vulnificus, are often
the focus of my research; however, my experience includes work with microbial
indicators of anthropogenic pollution (Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis) and
microbial pathogens of corals (Serratia marcescens). Prospective students who have
completed coursework in the biological and computer sciences are encouraged to
contact me regarding research opportunities.
Michael Wetz, Ph.D.
[email protected]
Associate Professor
My research focuses on understanding how estuarine
and coastal ecosystems “work.” We often use phytoplankton as
indicators of both ecosystem function and environmental change in the
coastal zone, and are particularly interested in understanding how phytoplankton
production and community composition are affected by climate and human-driven
environmental changes. We are also interested in the implications of climatic and
anthropogenic change for water quality, biogeochemical cycling and food webs in the
coastal zone. Typically, undergraduates who work in my lab have taken one year of
Biology and often Principles of Ecology as well.
Tony Wood
[email protected]
Director, National Spill Control School
Spill preparedness and response research conducted by the National Spill
Control School relies on students to find new or improved solutions to
existing oil or hazardous materials problems. Mr. Wood serves as a professional mentor
for students who want to develop their own research projects, write grant applications,
assert their role as a primary investigator, and develop their reports as the lead
author. Graduate and undergraduate students have developed award winning research
and gained personal recognition for their accomplishments in NSCS sponsored
research.
Feiqin Xie, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My primary research interests are in satellite remote sensing and
atmospheric sciences. I am interested in using GPS measurements, satellite liar and radar
observations for climate and weather research. One project focuses on low clouds over
the subtropical eastern oceans and the Arctic Ocean. Self-motivated undergraduate with
good math, physics and computer coding background (IDL or Matlab highly desirable) who
are eager to learn are welcomed to help analyze satellite observations for climate studies.
The student will learn how satellites work and obtain practical skills that are useful for
carrying out a research project. Outstanding students could have the opportunity to work
with collaborators in NASA center in summer.
UNDERGRADUATE
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES
2014-2015
Contact these professors to learn more about
research opportunities in their labs
College of Science & Engineering
Hao Xu, Ph.D.,
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My research focus on biology inspired intelligent design for multi-robots,
including biology social network inspired Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)
Network design, bio-inspired smart autonomous UAV, brain-controlled flying UAV and
mobile robot. There are several projects that need the help: 1) UAV network: build up a
real-time UAV network with multi-quadrotor and wireless communication module; 2)
Smart robot: embed an existing bio-inspired algorithm into our ground mobile robot to
make it smart (e.g. tracking the motion, avoid obstacle etc.); 3) Brain-controller UAV
and mobile robot. Please contact me if you are interested in our running projects.
Paul Zimba, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
Undergraduate opportunities in marine natural products chemistry,
plant physiology (algae and seagrass), and biofuel research available.
Please visit http://ccs.tamucc.edu/labs/plankton/planktonHome.html for current details
of research. A working knowledge of basic chemistry, coupled with a commitment to do
quality work is required.
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Felix Omoruyi, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
The focus of my research is to establish (1) the
effects of short- and long-term hyperglycemia on
the integrity of specific organs and tissues to identify biochemical
markers for early detection of diabetic complications and (2) the hypoglycemic and
hypolipidemic properties of medicinal plants in animal models of diabetes. The
ultimate goal is to establish the mechanisms of action of selected medicinal plants
and to develop products that are effective and safe for the treatment of diabetes and
associated cardiovascular diseases. Interested students must have experience in
either clinical chemistry or biochemistry.
David Portnoy, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
I am interested in the conservation genetics of exploited marine
fishes as well as historical patterns of marine zoogeography. I also
study systematics and evolution of bony fishes and elasmobranchs,
with specific interests in patterns of sexual selection and conflict.
OUTER FRONT COVER
Hussain Abdulla, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My research interest is investigating the changes in the metabolomics
profiles of aquatic species under different environmental stresses.
Which will give better understanding about the interactions between these
species and their environment, and will help us to identify the chemical mechanisms that
enable these species to tolerate the environmental stresses especially as metabolites
reflect and amplify the activities at a functional level, i.e., the true phenotype. In addition,
I’m studying the biogeochemical cycle of terrestrial organic matter by analyzing organic
markers and how the photochemical process alters natural organic matter.
Mufid Abudiab, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
My interest is mathematical biology, including mathematical modeling,
computational methods, and technology in math education. I have done
research on the interaction of the AIDS virus and the major human
immune cells at the cellular level, and the employment of advanced numerical
methods in the simulation process.
Mark Besonen, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My research is focused on the use of paleo records, typically
sediment cores, to document environmental and climatic change over the
last few thousand years. I am developing records of past hurricane activity and drought
in the South Texas area as well as on a series of geoarchaeological projects, mostly based
in the northeastern Mediterranean, to provide paleoenvironmental, paleogeographic,
and paleoclimatic information for archaeological projects there. Potential students
would participate in local fieldwork and lab analyses related to these projects, or
potentially a related project of their own conception.
Fereshteh Billiot, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
My research is heavy in instrumentation, so students get to use a variety of
state of the art instrumentations, such as nuclear magnetic resonance, fluorescence
spectroscopy, capillary electrophoresis, high performance liquid chromatography, and gas
chromatography. Currently, students are working on synthesis of amino acids based
surfactants for analysis of chiral compounds using NMR spectroscopy and capillary
electrophoresis with the main focus on the effect of pH on mechanism of the chiral
separation.
Gregory Buck, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
The long-term goal is to determine how V. vulnificus can go from freeliving
forms to association with mollusks and shellfish, and how it cancause
disease in humans. The objective is to determine how vibrios
survive environmental stresses and the genes involved, as well as characterize vibrios by
PCR. Another project involving regulation of aromatic substances
in Pseudomonas putida is also available. Students MUST have a "B" or better in
Microbiology. Genetics is strongly suggested, and courses in Biochemistry and Molecular
Biology are helpful. I am not interested in students who wish to solely "check off" an
activity box for professional school. Students must be able to safely work alone
withpathogenic bacteria, do research independently after 3 months, and to work as a
team member with graduate students and other undergraduates.
Kirk Cammarata, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
Understanding the effects of environmental pollution on estuarine
systems requires knowledge of seagrass response to stress at genomic,
physiological and ecosystem levels. Fluorescence imaging is used to
study how field fertilization experiments stimulate growth of epiphytic
algae that attach to and shade the seagrass leaves. DNA fingerprinting characterizes
the microbial communities in biofilms and how they change in response to
eutrophication or pollutants. DNA sequencing and genomic analyses are used to
discover the stress response pathways to develop indicators of impending loss of
seagrass beds.
Tim Causgrove, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
My research is in protein dynamics and folding. Our main effort is in using
molecular dynamics simulations to study the range of structures adopted by intrinsically
disordered proteins, and how that range of structures is changed when the protein
interacts with biologically relevant ligands. Other computer-based modeling methods are
also used.
Jeremy L. Conkle, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My research focuses on the fate, transport and health impacts (public and
ecosystem) of pollutants in coastal environments. While these interests are broad, we are
particularly interested in understanding the impacts of emerging contaminants,
pesticides and marine microplastics. Our studies range from surveys of freshwater,
coastal and marine environments to controlled laboratory experiments that seek to
quantify contaminant effects on ecosystem function and organismal health. Please visit
my website (http://conklelab.tamucc.edu) to learn more.
Andreas Fahlman, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
I am interested in physiological traits used by marine mammals
and birds to extend dive duration and depth. Projects include:
comparing the structural and functional properties of the
respiratory system in different marine mammals using mathematical models
and empirical measurements on live animals and excised tissues. Other
projects include working with the Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network.
Luis Rodolfo Garcia Carrillo, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My research draws from the areas of robotics, control theory,
and computer vision. The study of these fields together with
the essential underlying physics and sensors of unmanned agents problems
allows the development of low-level autopilot strategies for stability, as well as
of vision based higher-level functions for path planning. Experimental
validation of our theoretical developments include autonomous navigation of
small UAVs in hostile environments where human interactions are limited or
not possible.
James Gibeaut, Ph.D.
[email protected]
Associate Professor
The Coastal & Marine Geospatial Lab seeks to understand
the dynamic links between geomorphology, sediments,
hydrology, climate, and biology that create the environments of
coastal zones. We apply remote sensing, ground studies, and geographic information
systems to build time series of environmental conditions. These time series,
combined with data on processes such as sea-level rise, storms, and human activities,
are our chief tools for developing process-response models of geoenvironmental
change. Maps and model results help develop and apply environmental policy.
Research may involve: field work on the beaches and wetlands in the Corpus Christi
area; data analysis using a variety of software packages, particularly the ArcGIS
Geographic Information System; and environmental policy analysis.
Xavier F. Gonzales, Ph.D., MSPH
Visiting Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My research interest lies in the effects of stress and psychological
disorders on health, disease development, and the human
microbiome. We currently work on three areas of study within this
topic. First, how the psychosocial environment affects the health of an individual
along with the impact stressors play on the immune system. Second, the effects of
psychopathology on the immune system and how perceived stresses are assessed.
Third, the role of endocrine factors released during stress on regulating the host
microbial environment to promote disease progression. In this work, we utilize in
vitro models that include a variety of human and rodent cell types and in vivo
models that include rodents and freshwater/marine species. As a group, we are
interested in students that have a strong desire to continuously discover new
relationships on stress and disease.
David Grisé , Ph.D.
Professional Assistant Professor
[email protected]
I am a plant ecologist interested in the physiological basis of
ecologically-important traits and how these impact plant community
composition. I am also interested in how plants deal with stress at both the
physiological and ecological level and have worked with species both in terrestrial
and aquatic environments. Current projects include using sunflowers as a model
species to better understand responses to climate change in Central and South
Texas.
J. Derek Hogan Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My research is in the area of ecology and marine biology with a
focus on migration and dispersal of aquatic organisms. We use genetics and
geochemistry to track animal movements in tropical and temperate ecosystems.
Xinping Hu, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My research focuses on marine carbon cycle, including examining
carbon fluxes at both sediment-water and air-sea interfaces, ocean and
estuary acidification, sediment biogeochemistry, and
stable
isotope
geochemistry. One project looks at water column chemistry changes in the northern
Gulf of Mexico following the Deepwater Horizon Oil spill. I am looking for a student
with excellent analytical skills. Course preparations should include general chemistry
and analytical chemistry. There may be opportunities to participate in research cruises
and field trips.
Yuxia (Lucy) Huang, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
I am interested in Geographic Information System (GIS) usage and
applications in medical and in healthcare systems, particularly in using GIS
to help expand our understanding of health disparities in communities. My recent
research deals with spatial accessibility to health care facilities and its relationship with
preventable hospitalizations for elderly. I also study statistical analysis and visualization
of spatial health-related data, and individual-based model of the spread of infectious
diseases. Junior or senior level students from GIS, public health, social science,
mathematics, and computer sciences with good academic standing are preferred.
Gary Jeffress, Ph.D.
Professor
[email protected]
I oversee research at the Conrad Blucher Institute where we
observe scientific physical oceanographic data along the Texas
Gulf coast via the Texas Coastal Ocean Observation Network. These data
are quality controlled and displayed on the Internet in near real time. We employ
undergraduate and graduate students to assist us. Students have been funded to use
these data to design and build useful smartphone apps for coastal users. We employ
students from Geographic Information Science, Math, Computer Science, and
Engineering programs. An interest in coding software and the Internet is an
advantage.
Jinha Jung, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My research focuses on advanced remote sensing data analysis for
interdisciplinary research projects leveraging my specialties in Civil
Engineering, Remote Sensing, Geospatial Science, and High Performance
Computing. We are specialized in processing LiDAR and hyperspectral data for monitoring
environmental resources, and also developing advanced remote sensing algorithms for
high performance computing environments. The advanced remote sensing algorithms are
also integrated into GIS platform using free and open source software packages so that
developed tools are readily accessible to larger audiences. Students with strong math,
statistics, programming background and interested in working on challenging engineering
problems are encouraged to contact me for further discussion.
Iltai (Isaac) Kim, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My research interests are nano-bio-chemical sensing,
micro/nanoscale fluidics and heat transport, and energy conversion
such as solar harvesting and thermophotovoltaics using the synergy
of nano-bio photonic technique and engineering. Research projects include
development of three-dimensional thermal energy diagnostic tools in hyperthermia
therapy of cancer and tumor using metal or magnetic nanoparticles; In-situ monitoring of
ionic distribution in micro/nanopores in shale gas/oil production; real-time optical
characterization of nanofluids, development of portable oil leak detection device; superresolution surface plasmon resonance imaging microscopy using hyperbolic
metamaterials; highly efficient hybrid nanostructure consisting of hyperbolic
nanostructures and photosynthetic molecules for solar energy harvesting and
thermophotovoltiacs. Interdisciplinary background such as engineering, physics,
chemistry, and biology are preferred.
Patrick Larkin. Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
My research focuses on the genetics and biochemistry of native
plant species and involves conservation genetics and natural
products chemistry. The conservation genetic work focuses on measuring
genetic variation and gene flow among native plant populations, especially those
impacted by fragmentation and human disturbance. Species studied include seagrasses
(Halodule wrightii, Thalassia testudinum), terrestrial legumes (Desmanthus virgatus),
and invasive species such as Kleberg’s Bluestem (Dichanthium annulatum). The natural
products work focuses on the isolation and characterization of novel compounds from
native plant species. Both areas involve a combination of molecular and field
techniques. A major goal is to aid in the design of appropriate habitat management
plans.
Chuntao Liu Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My research focuses on understanding global severe weather,
including lightning, thunderstorms, squall lines, hurricanes, etc. There
are several projects running in 2014 that need help. 1) We are starting an
atmospheric science undergraduate student program. We need a web-design genius
to help us develop the program main webpage at: http://atmos.tamucc.edu/ 2) I
need to compile a large satellite dataset to study cloud and precipitation for a NASA
project and need help on dataset downloading and organizing. 3) Some help is
needed in building a recent year tropical cyclone (or called “Hurricane” in US,
“Typhoon” in Asian, and “Cyclone” in Australia) database. Contact me if you are
interested in the storms and happen to be a good computer programmer and are
willing to help.
Ruby Mehrubeoglu, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
In the HOPI Lab, we are all about optics, imaging and data processing
as they apply to multidisciplinary research projects in science and
engineering. We use hyperspectral, thermal and other digital imaging
modalities to investigate biological, environmental, marine, and
mechanical/electrical engineering problems. Our most recent projects
include metal surface defect detection; hyperspectral imaging of cell cultures, algal
species, corals, bacterial colonies, seagrasses; thermal imaging for oyster shell weight,
thickness and strength trends; optical property measurements and real-time computer
interfacing; and distributed/parallel algorithms for image processing. Students from all
majors, including but not limited to School of Engineering and Computing Sciences, PENS
and LSCI, are welcome to participate in research projects in the HOPI lab. Students will
engage in experimental data acquisition and analysis using various software.
Paul Montagna, Ph.D.
Harte Research Institute Chair & Professor
[email protected]
My research projects are primarily focused on the need for
environmental flows to sustain bay health, and effects of the Deepwater
Horizon oil spill on deep sea benthos. Specific project locations are in San Antonio
Bay, Corpus Christi Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico. Research methods include
invertebrate taxonomy, nutrient chemistry, sediment characteristics, GIS, modeling,
web design, and data management.
Riccardo Mozzachiodi, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
My laboratory is exploring the mechanisms by which external and
internal stimuli alter behaviors and behavioral choices in
the marine mollusk Aplysia californica. Using in vivo
behavioral procedures and neurophysiological techniques in in vitro reduced
preparations, different forms of behavioral plasticity are studied at behavioral, network
and single-cell levels. Emphasis is given to the study of simple forms of learning and to
the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying memory formation and maintenance.
Students have the opportunity to become familiar with behavioral protocols and
neurophysiological techniques and conduct research using these approaches in the area
of behavioral neurophysiology. Students may decide to be involved in the behavioral
and/or neuro- physiological aspects of the project. A background in cellular/animal
physiology and a general interest in neurosciences are recommended.
Dorina Murgulet, Ph. D., P.G.
Assistant Professor
[email protected]
My research focuses on understanding hydrological and
geochemical processes associated with groundwater and
surface water interaction as well as reconstruction of
groundwater contamination sources and transport. We are working on
groundwater-surface water interaction in a semi-arid coastal area using isotopes and
other forensic geochemistry methods (GIS, remote sensing techniques, and
groundwater modeling). The research includes understanding: a) groundwater
contributions to water quality and habitat degradation in coastal embayments; b)
groundwater discharge zones and surface water salinity variations; c) the role of
groundwater nutrients in system-wide nutrient budgets; and d) hypoxia and
phytoplankton trends in relation to groundwater flow and nutrient discharge. Other
topics include: groundwater vulnerability assessments and aquifer characterization;
nutrient sources and biological/ geochemical processes associated with nutrient
fluxes and transport to groundwater and coastal waters; groundwater assessments
in response to drought conditions and increased stress conditions due to aquifer
overdevelopment.
Cherie McCollough, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
[email protected]
I conduct research in science teaching and learning; evaluation of science
curricula; culturally relevant curriculum in science; and science preservice teacher
teaching and learning. Accepting undergraduates and graduates with an interest in
teaching and/or researching secondary and post-secondary sciences.
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