SWMS 2018

On March 24th, the Davies Lab attended its first research symposium! Saturday morning, a total of 9 lab members made their way to the University of Rhode Island’s Graduate School of Oceanography in Narragansett for the Society for Women in Marine Science Spring Symposium.

A mix of skills-based workshops, open group discussions, and research presentations, the workshop provided the perfect opportunity for men and women alike to talk about important issues in the field today.

“The atmosphere was just so welcoming,” undergraduate Brittany Williams said. “It was inspiring to see so many female scientists who have gone through the same struggles.” Brittany co-presented on Florida Keys reef responses to Hurricane Irma with fellow undergraduate student Tiffany Wong. Project mentor and PhD student Nicola Kriefall was proud of their work. “They did such an amazing job, so many people were interested in their poster,” she said.

In addition to showcasing their research, students in the lab were able to participate in discussions about gender inequality, challenges with confidence, and barriers to entry in a white male dominated field. Undergraduate research assistant Katherine Galeas was glad to hear about current efforts to help underrepresented students.

“I feel hopeful and less afraid of what choices I have to make senior year and beyond,” she said. Overall, the Davies Lab was thankful for the opportunity to hear from marine science researchers in all career stages, undergraduate Chris Reyes noted.

“My favorite thing was getting to meet people from different backgrounds and hearing their experiences,” he said.

To learn more about the symposium and the Society for Women in Marine Science, check out their website!