Emily
Pierce
Hometown: Durham, NC
Major: Environmental Science, with minors in Biology and Marine Science
Research Interest: Phytoplankton community composition
“My experience with the CSS program has strengthened my commitment not only to the research endeavor, but more specifically to research that is inclusive and intentional.
GRADUATE/PROFESSIONAL SCHOOL:
North Carolina State University (PhD, Department of Marine, Earth, and Atmospheric Sciences)
WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS?
In the future I hope to conduct aquatic microbiology research that informs water quality management and decision making. I am especially interested in working to better understand harmful algal blooms and the associated production of cyanotoxins in aquatic systems.
WHAT DREW YOU TO THE CSS PROGRAM?
I was drawn to the CSS program because it offered an instant network of diverse, ambitious peers that I could learn from and connect with.
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE CSS EXPERIENCE OR MEMORY?
My favorite CSS memory is presenting my research at the CSS research symposium senior year. The CSS students, staff, and family made me feel so supported and proud of my research during my presentation.
HOW HAS CSS SHAPED YOUR CAREER GOALS?
My experience with the CSS program has strengthened my commitment not only to the research endeavor, but more specifically to research that is inclusive and intentional. The CSS program has taught me to set high standards for myself and my community throughout my career and instilled in me the confidence and skills to meet those standards.
WHAT IS YOUR PRIMARY RESEARCH INTEREST?
I conducted research for three years with the Marchetti Lab in the Marine Sciences Department. My research focused on phytoplankton community composition analysis using molecular and imaging tools.
AWARDS AND HONORS
- CSS Distinguished Scholar Award
- Phi Beta Kappa
- Graduated with Highest Honors and Highest Distinction
- Dean’s List (all four years)