Brienne Engel

Degree Sought: Ph.D. in Biological Oceanography

Dissertation Topic:

Research Interests:

I'm interested in using presence/absence of chemical cues involved in the attraction of various species of foraminifera as an indicator of reef health.

Educational Background:

• Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry; Brandeis University, 2008
  Bachelor of Science in Biology; Brandeis University, 2008
  • Minors in Chemistry and Art History
    
• World Learning - Study Abroad, Australia: Natural and Cultural Ecology, Spring 2007

Research/Field Experience

• University of South Florida, St. Petersburg, FL, Fall 2008-Present
  • Marine Microbiology Research, Dr. Pam Hallock-Muller, Dr. John Paul.
    
• Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, January 2006 – August 2008.
  Biochemistry Research, Dr. Daniel Oprian
  • Research included work on purification and crystallization of rhodopsin mutants as well as the expression of Taxadiene synthase in mammalian cells.
    
• Lizard Island Research Station, Great Barrier Reef, Australia, March 2007 – May 2007.
  Biology Research, Dr. Morgan Pratchett, James Cook University
  • Effects of coral bleaching on host fidelity by symbiotic coral crabs (Trapeziidae)
    
• Surface Support Scientific Diver, 99th Aquarius Mission, Key Largo, FL
  • Research included collection and analysis of coral mucus and foraminifera samples
    
• Support Research Diver,
  Dr. Kim Ritchie
  • Worked during the May 2009 Porites astreoides spawning event determining the effects of biofilms and various bacteria on coral larvae settlement.
    

Professional Experience:

• Researcher, Oprian Lab, Brandeis University, December 2005-August 2008
• Microbiology Lab Mentor, Oceanography Camp for Girls, June 2009

Honors and Awards:

• Presidential Fellowship, University of South Florida
• Von Rosenstiel Fellowship, University of South Florida
• Justice Louis Brandeis Scholarship, Brandeis University
• Joseph Scacalossi Scholarship, Public Employee Federation

Skills and Certifications:

• PADI Open Water and Advanced Open Water
• IANTD Nitrox Diver
• AAUS Scientific Diver
• CPR-First Aid Certified
• DAN oxygen provider