This year, the Northeast Fisheries Science Center hosted 17 students from eight states and 15 different colleges and universities. Project topic areas ranged from climate change, microplastics, sharks and ray ecology, and protected species, to fish spawning, aquaculture, and shellfish disease. Some projects involved technologies and techniques like passive acoustics, image and video, molecular/DNA, ageing, satellite telemetry, and machine learning/visioning.
In each profile, students outline their project, explain why it's important, and—always the most compelling part—share insights they’ve gained into marine science as a career during their time with us.
Educational Partnership Program with Minority Serving Institutions
The primary long-term goal of the Educational Partnership Program with Minority Serving Institutions is to increase the number of students, particularly from underrepresented communities, who attend higher education institutions that have NOAA Cooperative Science Centers.
Martin Gonzalez (He/Him/His)
Bio
Hometown: Sacramento, California
University: University of California, Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz, California
Major: Marine Biology and Earth Science
Internship Mentor(s):
- Matthew Poach, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Project
I’ve been analyzing the growth rates of Atlantic surfclams using a growth rate function and R, a statistical computing and graphics software, at five sites on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. To do this, I cut the shells in half, polished them, and used a microscope to count the growth rings—just like you’d count tree rings to age a tree. The project goals are to validate a lab-based growth model with field-based growth rates and identify correlations with environmental variables. This work will help inform the surfclam industry and decision makers about the effects of climate change on the fishery.
Insight
My favorite part of the internship was going through the data collection process—dissecting, cutting, and ageing clams—and the different aspects of the project. I really appreciated all the lab experience I’ve gained. I certainly have never shucked this many clams! After I complete my undergraduate degree, I’d like to use this experience and the knowledge I gained from my two majors to pursue graduate school and to study how climate change affects marine communities.
Experiential Research & Training Opportunity
The NOAA Experiential Research & Training Opportunity is a win-win for NOAA and its Minority Serving Institution Cooperative Science Center academic partners.
Michelle Fernandez (She/Her/Hers)
Bio
Hometown: Miami, Florida
University: University of Miami in Miami, Florida
Degree program: Doctoral degree in Marine Biology and Ecology
Internship Mentor(s):
- Cami McCandless, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Project
I’ve been analyzing skate and ray bycatch data from the Cooperative Atlantic States Shark Pupping & Nursery survey in Delaware Bay. I’m trying to determine what factors—water temperature, depth, and salinity—influence skate and ray distribution and abundance. Skates and rays are an integral part of this estuarine ecosystem. Identifying what factors affect their seasonal use of the bay helps us better understand the ecology of Delaware Bay.
Insight
This opportunity has allowed me to gain incredible experience using R, conducting statistical analyses, and learning different fieldwork methods. I have participated in two 10-day surveys in Delaware Bay this summer. I’ve been able to see first-hand how fishery-independent longline surveys are conducted—where the data I’m working with comes from. It’s given me a holistic view in my analyses. The skills I have gained from working with Cami will benefit me through my doctoral degree and career.
Hollings Scholars
Established in 2005, the Hollings Scholarship Program provides successful undergraduate applicants with awards that include academic assistance (up to $9,500 per year) for 2 years of full-time study. It also includes a 10-week, full-time, paid ($700/week) internship at a NOAA facility during the summer.`
Danya Awshah (She/Her/Hers)
Bio
Hometown: Tampa, Florida
University: University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida
Major: Environmental Science and Policy and Chemistry
Internship Mentor(s):
- Ashok Deshpande, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Project
My project focused on characterizing the chemical composition of microplastics ingested by juvenile loggerhead sea turtles found dead in Florida. After sorting intestines for plastic particles, I used pyrolysis gas chromatography mass spectrometry to identify the chemical composition of the ingested plastic. Loggerheads are a threatened species along the East Coast. Identifying which plastics are the most consumed tells us which ones should be prevented from entering juvenile sea turtle habitats.
Insight
This internship gave me first-hand experience operating analytical instruments that I wouldn’t have been able to receive elsewhere. It also taught me a lot about the dangers of microplastics and the different impacts that plastic pollution can have on marine life. This was a unique opportunity that combined two of my passions—research and the environment. I will continue to reflect on my work here long after my internship is over.
Cassidy Beach (She/Her/Hers)
Bio
Hometown: Presque Isle, Michigan
University: University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Major: Earth and Environmental Science
Internship Mentor(s):
- Amanda Holdman, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Project
I’ve been looking at the presence of harbor porpoises and dolphins in Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. To do that, I sifted through automated detector and classifier data to make sure harbor porpoise and dolphin echolocation events were being classified accurately. Knowing which species are found in the sanctuary can help inform management efforts.
Insight
Working in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, and being surrounded by a great community of scientists has been a wonderful experience! During my time here, I was always learning something new and making new connections. I’ve really enjoyed learning more about marine mammals and advancing my data analysis skills. I’ve found a new love for the megafauna I got to study this summer. This internship has helped me narrow my interests in marine biology and I look forward to using the skills I've gained in the future work I pursue!
Learn more about Cassidy's intern experience in her blog.
Matthew Brander (He/Him/His)
Bio
Hometown: Stratford, Connecticut
University: University of Rhode Island in South Kingstown, Rhode Island
Major: Marine Biology and Aquaculture and Fisheries Science
Internship Mentor(s):
- Xavier Mouy, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Project
This summer, I’ve been analyzing underwater audio recordings collected in Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary for evidence of haddock courtship and spawning. Haddock are one of the most commercially important fish species in New England. However, relatively little is known about their spawning habits in our region. Using passive acoustics to monitor spawning behavior can provide valuable information for improving the management of this species.
Insight
This internship has given me the opportunity to learn what it’s like to conduct research in a professional setting. I’ve gained more experience coding in R and learned more about passive acoustics. I also got to do some field work deploying hydrophone arrays in the sanctuary which was an amazing experience. This internship has helped me make connections with other scientists and students in Woods Hole that I’m sure will benefit my career!
Grace Cajski (She/Her/Hers)
Bio
Hometown: New Orleans, Louisiana
University: Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut
Major: English & Environmental Studies
Internship Mentor(s):
- Renee Mercaldo-Allen, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Project
I’ve been working on the Milford Lab’s GoPro aquaculture project to analyze scup behavior on sparse and dense oyster farms in comparison with natural rock reefs. To do that, I’ve been using Observer XT—a software used for behavioral research. This work will help us better understand the ecosystem services aquaculture gear provides and inform aquaculture policies. I also created a StoryMap highlighting shellfish growers involved in the GoPro aquaculture project and wrote an article to highlight the collaborations between NOAA scientists and the region's shellfish growers.
Insight
I’ve been studying aquaculture for the past few years and this summer was particularly fulfilling. I got to develop new skills, gain new insights, and learn about a new region all within my realm of interests. Leaving the Milford Laboratory, I'm confident that I have the skills and knowledge to develop my dream career. I'm grateful to my mentor and the rest of the GoPro team for including me and allowing me to learn from and with them!
Abigail Fritz (She/Her/Hers)
Bio
Hometown: Elgin, Texas
University: University of Dallas in Irving, Texas
Major: Biology
Internship Mentor(s):
- Annamaria DeAngelis, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Project
During my internship, I built a training dataset for an acoustic classifier that will use machine learning to identify which species of dolphin produced vocalizations detected in passive acoustic data. The classifier minimizes uncertainty, error, and bias in the analysis of passive acoustic recordings collected during the Atlantic Marine Assessment Program for Protected Species cetacean abundance surveys. This work will help improve our understanding of dolphin population health and dynamics in a changing world.
Insight
This internship has given me the opportunity to do meaningful research and learn new skills while working with a supportive and dedicated team. I’m excited to explore how I can incorporate passive acoustic data analyses and machine learning into new projects as I move forward in my career!
Isabella Garfield (She/Her/Hers)
Bio
Hometown: Silver Spring, Maryland
University: University of California, Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz, California
Major: Marine Biology
Internship Mentor(s):
- Jessica McCordic, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Project
For my project, I’ve been analyzing acoustic data collected off the coast of Australia to identify the presence of three main biological groups: baleen whales, dolphins, and fish. We’re using these data to create a baseline understanding of when certain species are present within the Australian Marine Parks, specifically the South-west Corner Marine Parks. We can compare this data to future data to understand how species are shifting in response to human impacts.
Insight
My favorite part of my internship was gaining experience in a new field of marine research. I had never heard of passive acoustic monitoring. Becoming completely engrossed in passive acoustics has given me skills that I can apply in my future marine science career. I’ve made amazing connections both through my mentor and with my fellow interns here in Woods Hole, Massachusetts—it’s really made this experience informative and incredibly fun.
Alexandra Redford (She/Her/Hers)
Bio
Hometown: Annapolis, Maryland
University: University of Miami in Miami, Florida
Major: Marine Science and Physics
Internship Mentor(s):
- Annabel Westell, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Project
This summer, I’ve been analyzing sperm whale echolocation calls collected by a towed string of underwater hydrophones. The goal is to better understand sperm whales diving and foraging behaviors. Monitoring these behaviors helps us better understand the population habitat use, which can help with conservation efforts. This is the first time that this method has been used to analyze sperm whale foraging activity. It’s been incredibly rewarding to be a part of such a new and innovative project.
Insight
I learned many valuable skills I am excited to build on, such as coding in R, mapping in ArcGIS, and using acoustic software. I’ve learned a lot about biological acoustics and its many applications, as it allows non-invasive monitoring and can collect data that was previously difficult to monitor. I had an incredible intern experience and couldn't be happier with the program I chose!
Learn more about Alexandra’s intern experience in her blog.
NOAA Office of Aquaculture Veterinary Aquaculture Research and Policy Externships
This 3- to 4-week program is for fourth-year veterinary students from diverse backgrounds who want to explore aquaculture medicine research and policy. Externs assist staff with laboratory and field-based bivalve disease research.
Sam Oakey (She/Her/Hers)
Bio
Hometown: Melbourne, Florida
University: University of Georgia, College of Veterinary Medicine
Degree program: Doctoral degree in Veterinary Medicine
Internship Mentor(s):
- Meghana Parikh, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Project
I participated in a couple different projects during my externship at the Northeast Fisheries Science Center's Milford Lab. Most of my work focused on shellfish disease related to projects led by Milford scientists. One of the projects I was heavily involved in focuses on better understanding the health of Long Island Sound oyster beds. To do this we conducted field assessments of oyster beds by measuring bed area and collecting environmental data such as water temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, chlorophyll-a, and pH. For my disease work, I identified the parasites that cause dermo, MSX, and SSO disease. These diseases can seriously threaten oyster growth, survival, and reproduction. The Eastern oyster is one of Connecticut's major commercially harvested shellfish species and it provides all kinds of ecosystem services. Understanding oyster and habitat health can help Connecticut's shellfish farmers improve production and provide guidance for effective oyster restoration in the state.
Insight
This externship was a great introduction into the field of shellfish aquaculture. It’s helped with networking with various NOAA aquaculture veterinarians. I’ve enjoyed working with Meghana and learning about her role as a research veterinarian helping shellfish farmers understand management protocols to ensure healthy and productive harvests. This externship will help me in my future as an aquaculture veterinarian in understanding how management practices have a major impact on seafood production and how to use diagnostics to determine disease.
Woods Hole Partnership Education Program
Celebrating its 15th year, the Woods Hole Partnership Education Program hosted 18 students from populations underrepresented in marine and ocean sciences who want to spend a summer gaining practical experience in marine and environmental science. Three of the students were mentored by science center staff.
Jose Cabral (He/Him/His)
Bio
Hometown: El Paso, TX
University: University of Texas at El Paso in El Paso, Texas
Major: Geophysics
Internship Mentor(s):
- Sean Hayes, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Project
Fin whales are an endangered and highly migratory species that regularly visit marine protected areas. For my project, I’ve been evaluating how fin whales use the state and federal marine protected areas off the coast of New England. I used satellite telemetry tagging data to determine fin whale foraging and feeding patterns, habitat use, and site fidelity—the tendency to return to previously visited locations. I paired this information with human activities to better understand what kinds of risks fin whales experience in and around marine protected areas. This work can be used to help evaluate and improve marine protected areas.
Insight
By participating in this program, I was able to develop key career-building skills by conducting real hands-on research. I refined my data processing and interpretation skills and polished my data modeling. I leave the program confident in my ability to conduct scientific research in a professional and demanding work environment.
Destiny Coleman (She/Her/Hers)
Bio
Hometown: Conyers, Georgia
University: Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, Florida
Major: Environmental Science
Internship Mentor(s):
- David McElroy, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Project
I’ve been working with the science center’s Cooperative Research Branch to analyze bottom habitat videos collected during the 2020 and 2021 Gulf of Maine Bottom Longline Surveys. My project focused on Acadian redfish—bottom-dwelling, long-living fish that were once threatened, and have now recovered. I’ve been documenting their characteristics, behaviors, and presence in the videos. I’m also comparing the presence of redfish in the videos to actual catch, and presence of redfish to habitat factors like bottom water temperature, depth, bottom topography, and anemone presence.
Insight
Being in a scientific community like Woods Hole exposes you to an infinite number of research disciplines, pathways, and opportunities. The Partnership Education Program is unique in ensuring that interns have the encouragement and support to advance their scientific careers. Personally, I enjoy the freedom of exploring the other scientific institutions located around Woods Hole, and having the chance to better refine my interests and passions in research and conservation of marine life and environments.
Emily Orozco (She/Her/Hers)
Bio
Hometown: San Diego, California
University: Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado
Major: Ecosystem Science and Sustainability
Internship Mentor(s):
- Ruth Haas-Castro, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Project
This summer I’ve been working with the science center’s Atlantic salmon team on age and growth studies data to better understand and help conserve endangered Atlantic salmon. To do that, I used Image-Pro analysis software to analyze Atlantic salmon scales and compare the growth between wild salmon smolts—juvenile salmon ready to migrate to the sea—and hatchery-raised smolts released into Maine rivers to help with conservation efforts. Growth data are essential for analyzing population trends and informing fisheries management.
Insight
The workshops, lectures, and resources this program provides have helped with my personal and professional development. It’s also allowed me to feel comfortable in settings where people of color are underrepresented, and has made me feel like I belong in STEM. This experience has helped me learn that there are a million different paths you can take in STEM. I now have a better idea of what career path I might want to take after finishing my undergraduate degree.
For more information, please contact Heather Soulen.
