Written by: Jess Van Vaerenbergh, USF CMS graduate student
Congratulations to CMS graduate students Lydia Ruggle and Emma Grave who recently received the 2023 Vembu Subramanian Ocean Scholars Award! They were joined by Samantha D’Angelo, a marine biology undergraduate at USF St. Petersburg and intern for the CMS Ocean Circulation Lab.
The Vembu Subramanian Ocean Scholars Award helps foster the growth and development of the next generation of ocean experts by providing opportunities for undergraduate students, graduate students, and early career professionals to connect with fellow experts in their field and showcase their work at meetings and conferences. The recipients will not only receive financial support but also gain valuable exposure and networking opportunities within the scientific community.
Lydia will take this opportunity to present her research on Pyrodinium bahamenese at the Marine Microbes Gordon Research Conference (GRC) in Switzerland in June.
“It is an honor to receive the Vembu Subramanian Ocean Scholars Award,” Lydia said. “This award has given me the opportunity to present my research on drivers of the Harmful Algal species, Pyrodinium bahamense, and learn from esteemed scientists at the Marine Microbes Gordon Research Conference.”
Emma will present her research on the phytoplankton community composition across the West Florida Shelf at the Ocean Science Meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana in February.
“I am so grateful to be selected for the Vembu Subramanian Ocean Scholars Award,” Emma said. “Thank you to SECOORA for giving me the opportunity to present my research at the Ocean Sciences Meeting.”
Samantha will join Emma at the Ocean Science Meeting in February, where she will present her research on the Tampa Bay Observing Network, which provides real-time monitoring of water quality and meteorological conditions.
“I am incredibly honored to be awarded the Vembu Subramanian Oceans Scholars Award,” she said. “As an undergraduate, having the opportunity to present my research, A Real-Time Water Quality Observation Network for Tampa Bay, will allow me to expand my knowledge in this amazing scientific community. I am grateful to have received this award and to follow other great scientists in honoring Vembu.”
Vembu Subramanian’s dedication to the Southeast Coastal Ocean Observing Regional Association (SECOORA), left an indelible mark on the organization. He had a passion for helping others and mentoring students on their own ocean science journey. In honor of Vembu Subramanian’s legacy, SECOORA sponsored the annual Ocean Scholars Awards.
Congratulations, Lydia, Emma, and Samantha for earning this prestigious award!