Sophia Boyd, M.S. Candidate, Marine and Estuarine Science Program, Environmental Science
The purpose of my thesis is to identify the relationship between macroalgae and filter-feeding invertebrates (in my case, Olympia oysters) regarding the transfer of metals. Metals are known to hyperaccumulate in kelps and other algae, and oysters filter out detritus from the algae, and can therefore work their way up the food chain. I am working in an integrated multitrophic aquaculture (IMTA) system as well as a mesocosm in order to inform best practices for aquaculturists as well as food safety regulations. Thesis introduction: Trophic Transfer of Metals
Allie Johnson, M.S. Candidate, Environmental Science
My graduate thesis research with Dr. Ruth Sofield investigates the toxicity of microplastic-associated chemicals to opossum shrimps (Americamysis bahia). By exposing young shrimps to leachate solutions created from 16 different types of microplastics, I aim to discover the role of plastic additives and other plastic-associated chemicals in microplastic toxicity.
Cynthia Kuhn, M.S. Candidate
Emma Sharpe, M.S. Candidate, Environmental Science
My study aims to conduct an ecological risk assessment for micro- and nano- plastics using a Bayesian Network relative risk framework and the San Francisco Bay as a case study. Using microplastic abundance data collected by the San Francisco Estuary Institute, microplastic toxicity data generated by Oregon State University, and water quality and chemical monitoring data, risk due to microplastics are determined.
Mikayla Bowers, B.S. Environmental Science, Western Washington University