Meet the Co-ChairsAnne Gilewski University of Connecticut
Hello! I am a PhD student at the University of Connecticut-Avery Point under the advisement of Dr. Evan Ward and Dr. Sandra Shumway. Prior to my return to graduate school, I was a licensed veterinary technician working with zoo and aquatic animals. My research investigates trophic interactions between tire-wear particles (TWP) and bivalve shellfish and examines potential effects on important biomarkers and overall animal health. We aim to determine the extent to which TWP contaminates the commercially important oyster (Crassotrea virginica) to inform managers and the public of the issue. Outside of school, I enjoy skiing, spoiling my five cats, and hanging out with my wonderful husband. Brandon Feole Stony Brook UniversityHello, I am a marine science PhD student at Stony Brook University working under Dr. Bassem Allam. The primary focus of my research is investigating cellular drivers of differential stress response in diploid and triploid oysters. I am particularly interested in how whole genome duplication events can influence parameters such as cell size and mitochondrial performance. The goal of this research is to both advance our understanding of fundamental biological questions and to identify potential mechanisms for observed summer mortality events in the eastern oyster. When I am not in the lab, I engage in a variety of hobbies including cycling, hiking, and reading (primarily horror). |