April 10, 2025
Grant: $1,000 in Spring 2022
Education level at the time of the grant: PhD student
Project Description:
I investigated the response of an estuarine “sentinel” species after exposure to radioactive pollutants. The historical use of radioluminescent objects containing radium-226 (226Ra)-based paint has resulted in contemporary environmental contamination of radioactive material, often near military-associated coastal site. I conducted the first mechanistic study of the uptake and effects of 226Ra in a marine mollusk, with the intention of informing biomonitoring schemes to ensure adequate protection of environmental health from legacy radioactive material. This grant supported travel to visit collaborators and collect samples, as well as supplies for antioxidant assays in the lab.
How did the grant process or the project itself influence you as a scientist/researcher?
The grant process gave me one of my first opportunities to independently shape the future of my research by learning how to pitch my ideas, create and manage a budget, and justify the use of the funds and direction of the project. The grant really helped me to take ownership of my own research and provided flexibility to pursue “high risk, high reward” research that resulted in publication in a high impact journal.
What advice would you give to future applicants?
Do your best to highlight the applications of your research, including future research lines and relevance to industry.
Where are you now?
In August 2024, I began as an assistant professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Tennessee Knoxville, with a joint appointment in the Department of Nuclear Engineering.
Students may apply for Sigma Xi research grants by March 15 and October 1 annually at www.sigmaxi.org/giar.