Elon

University

ELON University

Current and Past Student Members

A number of students have filtered their way through the Aquatic Botany Lab. Below is a selection of just a few students (and their research projects) who have contributed to the ongoing mission of the laboratory.

Wendy Turner (Grad. 2007)

Wendy’s research project focused on plant-water relation in emergent wetland plants. This includes plant physiological modifications during water deficits.

After graduating Wendy entered Law School in Southern California with interests in  environmental law.

 

Adam Frank (Grad. 2007)

Adam’s honors thesis considers the role of plant hormones in controlling plant water relations. He is using a combination of physiological and molecular tools to address issues in water conservation in plant tissues. 

After graduating Adam entered the Ph.D. program at NC State University focusing on  aquatic ecology. 

 

Gennie Romanello (Grad. 2007)

Gennie’s undergraduate research focuses on the physiological ecology of wetland plants. Her research involves both field and laboratory studies. She is also studying the eco-physiology of the invasive plant Japanese stilt grass.

After graduating Gennie enrolled in the M.S. program at Penn State University studying wetland ecology.   

Elon

University

Laura Iannacone (Grad. 2006)

Laura’s primary project was to evaluate phytoplankton (including harmful algae) in freshwater systems in Namibia (Africa). She was also involved in wetland-drought studies funded by USGS and WRRI.

After graduating Laura continued her education at Vanderbilt's nurse practitioner program.

 

Kirsten Rhodes (Current)

Scott Russell (Current)

Mariana Poole (Current)

Gracen Smith (Current)

Kirsten’s research includes the importance of plant hormones on plant-water relations in emergent hydrophytes . She is using biochemical and molecular techniques to address plant responses to low water availabilities. 

 

Scott is studying the affects of environmental parameters in promoting cyanobacterial blooms in the lower Pamlico River estuarine system. He is currently developing computer-based models that predict bloom conditions.  

 

Mariana’s research considers salt relations in coastal wetland plants. She is evaluating a number of biophysical components to help understand plant responses to sudden changes in salinity.   

 

Gracen’s research addresses physiological questions concerning plant-salinity relations in coastal wetland plants. This includes changes in water potential due to different salinity challenges.