Investigation of resilience mechanisms in south Florida coral reef ecosystems
Mentor:
Dr. Ashley Rossin
Dr. Ashley Rossin is a postdoctoral researcher in the AOML Coral Program studying reproduction in urban corals in southeast Florida. Her research has focused on coral disease and reproduction in the western Atlantic. She understands the importance of hands-on research opportunities and collaborations in the development of students in early career stages.
Format:
In-person
Brief description:
Despite challenging environmental conditions, the Port of Miami is surprisingly home to multiple species of reef-building corals. The AOML Coral Program has been monitoring these “urban corals” for seven years, investigating their environments, community structure, resilience mechanisms, symbioses, genetics, and reproduction. Currently, we are examining the genetic makeup of these corals and their contributions to population persistence through reproduction. We are also evaluating their potential roles in restoration efforts through partnerships with local restoration practitioners.
The student will be conducting field and experimental work on corals in southeastern Florida, potentially including bleaching interventions, sexual/asexual reproduction, coral husbandry, and ‘omics. They will learn various cutting-edge lab techniques and be a part of experiments on stressors that are affecting corals in the Port of Miami. This position will likely include spawning observations that are outside traditional business hours, and a reliable mode of transportation is encouraged. The student will work collaboratively with a diverse group of PIs, postdocs, technicians, and students.
