Student Blogs & Vignettes

Jennifer Vreeland

About my research

As a Ph.D. student in Dr. Mark Luther’s lab, I’ll be investigating wild shellfish populations in the Tampa Bay region. My research will focus on the transport and anchoring dynamics of the wild Sunray Venus Clam (Macrocallista nimbosa) under normal conditions and under ecological stressors such as ocean acidification and harmful algal blooms which have become more frequent events in recent years. This species of clam is also commercially cultivated in NW Florida. My work will provide additional information to current larval transport model systems to improve our understanding of potential patterns, stress response and anchoring triggers. The current model systems are utilized by resource managers (e.g. FWRI) and restoration organizations (e.g. Tampa Bay Estuary Program) to aid in the process of selecting successful restoration sites; however, much more information is needed to improve on the success rate of shellfish growth and to minimize the loss of the millions of dollars invested in shellfish restoration efforts.

Why USF CMS?

The USF College of Marine Science is a world class institution and over the years I’ve heard nothing but amazing experiences from alumni and work colleagues who have become very successful and highly regarded in the field of marine science. When I made the decision to apply to the Ph.D program, USF was my top choice and I wanted to work with Dr. Luther due to his years of amazing work in marine science and his stellar renowned reputation. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to attend USF and work with Dr. Luther!