Dr. Thornber is a professor at the University of Rhode Island. Her research focuses on how climate change impacts marine communities. In particular, her research looks into marine macroalgae, their importance in nearshore/coastal food webs, and the impacts of climate change on these systems.
Dr. Thornber's research involves both field work and lab work. The field work consists of collecting samples from a variety of marine systems, such as marshes, estuaries, mudflats, and rocky shores. Samples are usually taken during low tide and could also be taken during inclement weather, so flexibility is very important in this lab.
Once samples are collected, they are treated and analyzed in the lab. Techniques used in the lab include:
Microscopy
Counting/processing samples
Mass spectrometry
Data entry/analysis
Culturing seaweed in the lab (aquaculture)
Previous research experience is not a requirement for Dr. Thornber's lab, but curiosity in the subject, as well as willingness to learn and get dirty is desired.
Students interested in Dr. Thornber's research are encouraged to contact her at thornber@uri.edu
For more information regarding Dr. Thornber's research, please visit her research lab website https://web.uri.edu/thornber/
Dr. Carol Thornber
B.S. (Biology), 1995, Stanford University
Ph.D. (Biology), 2001, University of California, Santa Barbara