Through the generosity of the Honors Program, I was privileged to travel to the 2025 Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation Biennial Conference, November 10th-13th. During this conference, I presented my research poster, “Zooplankton as Indicators of Ecosystem Health: Baseline Assessments in Tampa Bay.” With the help of multiple URI grants, this research was conducted with Dr. Rebecca Waggett and outlines physical water parameters (chlorophyll, nutrients, temperature, and salinity), zooplankton abundance and diversity, and egg production rates of Acartia tonsacopepods at three designated sample locations in Tampa Bay. The research represents a baseline comparison for future tropical storm or red tide events.
Throughout the conference, I was able to network with experts in the field of coastal and estuarine sciences, as well as meet other undergraduate and graduate students researching similar topics. This gave me a chance to practice presenting in front of professionals, as well as receive feedback on my research and presentation techniques from accomplished judges. The conference was incredibly beneficial to me as a student looking to make connections with graduate and internship programs, as well as provided me with invaluable presentation experience. I am incredibly grateful to the Honors Program for this opportunity.
Jessica Sullivan
