Department of Environmental and Ocean Sciences Students Present Research Posters at Western Society of Naturalists Conference

Students and faculty from the Department of Environmental and Ocean Sciences recently attended the Western Society of Naturalists conference held on Nov. 6-9 in San Diego.

EOS faculty attendees included Chair and Professor Nathalie Reyns, PhD; Professor Sarah Gray, PhD; Graduate Program Director and Professor Drew Talley, PhD; Associate Professor Michel Boudrias, PhD; Professor Jennifer Prairie, PhD and Adjunct Assistant Professor Steven Searcy, PhD. Student attendees included graduate student Gunner Kolon and undergraduate students Mahina Ah Sam, Myla Caceres, Mariame Camara, Isabella Cisneros, Oliver Cole, Emma Combs, Liliana Gonzalez, Makida Hailu, Er Loo, Devin Mejico, Evy Melstrand, Anna Pollon, Sofia Ramirez, Danica Rauch, Karina Rog and Carter Witten. Alumna Ana Zbaraschuk ‘25 (BS) also attended and presented her research poster. 

Western Society of Naturalists is a scientific society with a strong focus on ecology, evolution, natural history and marine biology. The 106th annual conference featured a series of workshops and symposia on topics such as “Reclaiming Purpose: A writing workshop focused on confronting environmental challenges” and “Advice to early career professionals and graduate students on adapting to an evolving scientific landscape.”

The sixteen undergraduate students and one graduate student presented their research in the conference’s poster session. The poster session presentations gave students the opportunity to practice their oral presentation skills while networking with professionals and other students. The research presented focused on a variety of student projects, including collaborations with USD faculty and research conducted during student study abroad programs.

Danica Rauch shared, "One of the most rewarding experiences I have had during my time at USD has been attending a scientific conference. Attending the conference and presenting at the poster session allowed me to engage in meaningful conversations with others about the research process and make valuable connections. I was able to discover my love of research and my passion for sharing my findings with others."

Conference support was provided by the Office of Undergraduate Research’s student travel awards and the Department of Environmental and Ocean Sciences.