Department of Applied Environmental Science
ESTP Student Conducts Wildfire, Microplastic, and Botany Research
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Audrey Longan, a current Environmental Science, Technology, and Policy major, recently competed in UROC's Annual Research Competition, where she presented research on how increases in fine sediment due to wildfire impact populations of filter-feeding benthic macroinvertebrates.
Additionally, she is conducting research with Dr. John Olson in the Watershed Environments and Ecology Lab, focusing on various topics, including microplastics and aquatic plant diversity and distribution in the Carmel River.
We recently touched base with Audrey to learn more about her research and overall CSUMB experience. Check out her interview below!
What is your research about?
I have several research interests. I recently presented research on how increases in fine sediment due to wildfire impact populations of filter-feeding benthic macroinvertebrates (which are mussels or insects that live at the bottom of rivers or streams and are really important indicators of water quality). Currently, I have started working on a project sampling microplastics from water bodies around Monterey County and I just did a pilot survey to test my methods for my honors capstone. My honors capstone will be focused on determining the distribution and diversity of aquatic plants in the Carmel River.
What are you gaining from this research experience, and does it contribute to your career goals?
This research experience is giving me valuable expertise and skills I can use for my honors capstone and in my future graduate program, so it contributes to my career goals. I plan to apply for PhD programs in conservation ecology during my senior year so that I can go into a PhD right after graduation from my bachelor's
What is your favorite part of your research?
My favorite part about my research is going out in the field, sampling benthic macroinvertebrates or aquatic plants. I love nature, especially plants and insects so doing research focused on them is absolutely amazing.
Any advice for fellow students interested in participating in this kind of research?
My advice for students wanting to participate in this kind of research is to talk to UROC and make a consultation. This was really helpful to me so that I could find a lab I was interested in doing research. I would also look at labs on the CSUMB website and talk to professors in fields you are interested in. I found these were the best ways to get into a research lab or project.
What is your favorite part of being an undergraduate here at CSUMB?
My favorite part about being an undergraduate at CSUMB is the small class sizes and greater focus on undergraduates getting research experience.
What are your future plans (career, academic, etc.)?
My future plans include applying for REUs this summer, as well as PhD programs in conservation ecology next fall to hopefully get into a program for the following year. My ultimate career goal is to become a conservation ecologist and do research at a government organization such as the U.S. Forest Service or a private conservation organization.
Congratulations, Audrey! We look forward to seeing where your professional and academic endeavors will take you!