Below you will find a sample of classes I have taken in support of my doctoral degree. I am building an academic portfolio that blends science and policy focused on three subjects: water, energy, and wildlife.
Learned about the ecology of coastal systems with an emphasis on estuaries and the Chesapeake Bay. For my term project, I investigated the effects of nutrients, turbidity and wastewater on phytoplankton density across a salinity gradient.
Coastal Estuarine Ecology
Learned about various tools and techniques needed to solve multidisciplinary STEAM problems. I am working with a multi-disciplinary team to create a trashcan/recycling bin prototype to reduce stream litter and improve the health of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. See our presentation below!
Problem Solving and Leadership in STEAM
Learned about the interconnections between food, energy and water systems, which can create additional challenges. For my term project, I investigated the connections between California's use of water and how that has impacted its extensive agricultural system and energy grid.
Food Energy Water Nexus
Learned about various types of energy (pros/cons), energy policies (domestic and abroad) and their environmental impacts. For my term project, I investigated California's energy profile specifically looking at electricity, transportation, and how their interface affects wildlife in California.
Energy Policy
Learned about marine organisms and their interactions with the environment. For my term project, I am looking at the effect of energy structures on seabirds—both the pros and the cons. See my presentation below!
Marine Ecology
Learned various theories and techniques for effectively communicating environmental science issues. For my term project, worked to propose a visitor-focused plan to discourage the removal of historical artifacts and natural specimens from the park's territory.
Environmental Science Communication
Learned what strategies can be used to help businesses establish green supply chains and achieve a triple bottom line. Collaborated in writing sustainability assessments of MOM's Organic Market and Alta Ski Area.
Corporate Environmental Management & Policy
Learned about the history of science policy and writing one-pagers and policy memos. My team members and I even briefed U.S. Congressman Gerry Connolly's office and U.S. Senator Tim Kaine's office about the dangers of oil and gas production wastewater.
Introduction to Science Policy