Student Blogs & Vignettes
Kelsey Thompson
Kelsey Thompson, USF CMS master's student
About my research
Growing up in Florida, I have always had a deep interest in and care for the ocean. After graduating with my bachelor’s degree from USF, I worked as a chemist for two years at Mote Marine Laboratory in the Chemical & Physical Ecology and Ocean Acidification departments. During my time there, I ran many chemical analyses, participated in red tide mitigation experiments, and was involved in the routine monitoring of local bays and estuaries. All of these experiences ultimately solidified my passion for pursuing a career in marine science.
I am now pursuing my master’s degree in Dr. Weiyi Tang’s Biogeochemistry Lab, where I will be studying the seasonality of nutrient uptake and marine productivity on the West Florida Shelf and their connections to broader ecosystem processes such as fish spawning. As warming temperatures shifts many ecosystem dynamics, I hope my research will contribute to a better understanding of these processes and help to support healthy marine ecosystems, both locally and abroad.
Why USF CMS?
The main thing that drew me to USF College of Marine Science was its emphasis on collaboration. Everyone, including the faculty, staff, and students, work together to advance scientific knowledge, rather than compete with one another. Also, St. Petersburg is a wonderful place to live and I love it more and more every day!