Elaine is an undergraduate in the biogeochemistry and ecohydrology labs. She is interested in characterizing flooding events across a wetland gradient.
What research are you currently working on?
My current research focuses on using pressure transducers to characterize flooding events across a hydrologic gradient.
What are you looking forward to most about conducting your research?
I have limited experience with wetlands or hydrology, so I am looking forward to learning as much as possible from the experts on the Floodpulse project.
What research have you worked on previously?
Prior to joining the Jones lab, I worked in the Mortazavi lab. In that lab I helped Dr. Tatariw on her project looking at how disturbances affect ecosystem function in variably inundated environments.
Why did you decide to join the Jones lab?
After completing a laboratory technician position under Dr. Mortazavi, I spoke with Dr. Jones about the importance of pursuing my interests in wetland conservation and hydrology. Dr. Jones then gave me the opportunity to work in his lab to further my education in this field.
What are your overall career goals?
Prior to the summer of 2022 I planned on attending vet school. Then I completed a marine science internship on Dauphin Island and discovered an interest in research. The following semester I joined the Mortazavi lab and then transitioned to the Jones lab. Now I intend to pursue a career in hydrology and wetland conservation.
What advice do you have for anyone interested in graduate school and/or a degree in STEM?
If you are interested in a degree in STEM do not ignore opportunities that interest you, because you feel like they might not apply to your current career path. Incredible things can happen if you are open to trying new things.
What animal would you compare yourself to and why?
I would be a cat because I enjoy being up high and taking naps in the sun.
If you could vacation anywhere, where would it be?
I would really like to go to Iceland.
If you were a tree, what kind would you be and why?
I would be a magnolia tree because they have really pretty flowers that can start blooming in early spring which is my favorite season.
If you had to watch one movie on repeat, what would it be?
I would watch Elemental on repeat because it has gorgeous animation.