Aydin Khosrowshahi

- During summer of 2023, I participated in University-sponsored research concerning cyanobacteria populations and harmful algal blooms in the eutrophic water of Taylorsville Lake. These organisms, for reasons that are not fully understood, occasionally produce toxic compounds known as microcystins. Microcystins are not only harmful to wildlife but can also render drinking water reservoirs totally unusable.

- Field research as well as lab analysis were conducted during the algae’s most active time of year, to determine the relationship between a range of differently trophic environments (meaning, more or less nutrients available to these organisms) and production of these dangerous microcystins.

- In October I was invited to present this research at a Kentucky Water Research Institute conference in Rupp Arena, with a student colleague and my senior researcher, Elisa D’Angelo. She notified me of the National Undergraduate Research Conference, and I believe this research would be a good candidate for inclusion. It concerns pollution of drinking water reservoirs which is a serious issue in Kentucky as algal blooms, like the ones in Taylorsville Lake, happen every year and have real potential to create catastrophe.

• Performed chemical analysis, handled samples, input and interpreted data in a laboratory environment
• Performed field work, in the collecting of samples from floating mesocosms installed in lake water, as well as field analysis of lake pH, measuring water visibility with a Secchi disk, and operating a canoe to transport samples.
• Collaborated with senior researcher and student colleagues in an effective, timely and professional manner.
• Attended Kentucky Water Research Institute (KWRI) symposium to present research to other, senior researchers also involved in water resource work.