Environmental Science Programs - University of New Haven

03/02/2018

Student Spotlight: Michael Torselli ('18)
While not pictured here, Mike is currently conducting a study under Dr. Kelly on the effects of rubber exposure on F.heteroclitus (mummichogs), specifically their growth, reproduction, and physiology. The treatment groups are exposed to rubber samples used in astro turf, along with ethylene estradiol (EE2). There are also groups being exposed to EE2, and a control group. At the end of the study, Mike will take measurements, making note of any changes or differences in cortisol levels, gene expression in liver cells, as well as the g***do somatic index, the ratio of g***d weight to overall (somatic) weight. In addition, Mike will be taking a look at the histology of the g***ds to look for any signs of female anatomy on the te**es of the males, as male mummichogs are known to metabolize estrogen

02/28/2018

Student Spotlight: Kira Diaz ('18)
While you can only see her fingers in this picture, rest assured that Kira is working on a very "hands-on" (Get it?) research project focusing on Fiddler Crab reproductive phenology. These females she took pictures of are some of the very few that were gravid among the nearly thousands of crabs she and the other students (and faculty) helped collect and measure out on Banca and Pleasant Point.

02/27/2018

Student Spotlight: Olivia Walton ('19)
Every now and then the Environmental Science students like to have some fun. here's Olivia out near Banca Back, playing with the drone after getting some aerial images of the marsh.

02/21/2018

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/21/science/flamingos-florida.html?rref=collection%2Fsectioncollection%2Fscience&action=click&contentCollection=science®ion=rank&module=package&version=highlights&contentPlacement=2&pgtype=sectionfront

A new study could help make the case for treating flamingos as Florida natives, which could entitle them to certain protections in the state.

02/20/2018

Here are some of the companies coming to the STEM Career Fair this Thursday. Check MyCharger for more details.

02/20/2018

http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=4405&q=500752&deepNav_GID=2121

Comprehensive Energy Strategy Abstract: The Comprehensive Energy Plan is an assessment and plan for all energy needs, including electricity, heating, cooling, and transportation. It must draw from the conclusions reached in the IRP as well as the findings from the energy efficiency plan and the rene...

02/20/2018

Ecology Undergrad (FA-2016 & FA-2017)
The undergraduate ecology lab applies many of the materials covered in lecture, both within the lab as well as outside. In addition, studies will learn many useful skills for ecological lab work and field work. These photos were taken during some of the field trips, which were part of the course.

02/20/2018

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/19/science/migration-animals-west.html?rref=collection%2Fsectioncollection%2Fscience&action=click&contentCollection=science®ion=rank&module=package&version=highlights&contentPlacement=2&pgtype=sectionfront

A study of 57 species shows that human encroachment and development not only harm an animal’s habitat, but may affect their migration patterns and food sources.

02/20/2018

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/13/science/songbirds-brains-mates.html?rref=collection%2Fcolumn%2Ftrilobites

Systems in the brains of male and female songbirds are well-developed and finely tuned, but the wiring is different.

02/20/2018

Several students are currently working with aerial images of Banca Marsh in Branford, CT.
Here is an orthomosaic generated in Agisoft using photos taken with the drone last year in the late summer/early fall.
Hopefully, they will be able to create images of the marsh similar to this one using aerial photos taken in previous years

02/10/2018

Student Spotlight: Morgan A Nivison

Last fall and winter, Morgan was working on her research project in San Salvador. Here's her take on the experience:
"Over a period of 4 days, we used a 12 ft tile probe to measure the depth of sand located at Sandy Point Beach. We also hiked the perimeter of the beach a total of 3 times to calculate the surface area and determine if the sand position changed. We worked under some of the most dynamic conditions. One day it was sunny and still, and then the next day it was near gale force winds with 8-12 ft waves. It was hard work, but it was so rewarding."

02/07/2018

Photo of Banca in Branford, CT