CELIE COWART
Fayette,Alabama
Summary
Determined and detail-oriented marine science undergraduate student with strong research capabilities and hands-on experience in field and lab work. Skilled in data analysis and report writing, contributing effectively to diverse projects. Focused on preserving coastal wetlands as well as oceanic biodiversity through dedicated study and conservation efforts.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Undergrad Research - Dr. Katrina Ramonell Lab
University of Alabama, Department of Biology
06.2026 - 08.2026
- Evaluated effects of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) on cucumber plant health over 21-day periods.
- Conducted test strip sampling with β-cyclodextrin and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin to assess plant responses.
- Enhanced understanding of plant physiology to support research efforts.
- Experience with data collection, preparing materials, tracking conditions, and organizing data sheets.
- Took DNA samples of cucumber plants after freezing them in liquid nitrogen.
- Used biochemistry to alter plant behavior and characteristics.
Undergrad Student Experience
Dauphin Island Sea Lab
05.2025 - 08.2025
- Assisted in Loblolly Pine research by taking tree-ring cores with increment borers to contribute to understanding tree growth patterns.
- Utilized push and vibracores in sediment sampling for environmental studies along Fort Morgan.
- Conducted analysis of water and sediment in Mobile Bay using tools such as CTDs, pH probes, Secchi disks, and zooplankton tows.
- Collected water samples with Niskin bottles to analyze dissolved oxygen and chlorophyll concentrations, supporting assessments of water quality in relation to ecosystem health.
- Gained extensive knowledge of Alabama's coastal wetland species and ways in which they are being restored (i.e., oyster reef restoration, Spartina planting).
Research Opportunity
Alabama Natural History Museum
08.2024 - 12.2024
- Collaboration with the director of paleontology at the Alabama Natural History Museum to research a collection of 75-million-year-old oyster shells.
- Investigated predator-prey dynamics between predatory gastropods and oysters, contributing to ecological understanding.
- Utilized Excel and PAST4 to perform comprehensive statistical analysis on research data.
- Conducted 150 hours of lab work to support ongoing research projects.
- Research presented at the 2025 Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Conference.
Undergrad Student Experience
Belize Study Abroad
05.2024
- Collaborated with locals and the lead professor to identify and document species diversity, enhancing knowledge of terrestrial and marine environments.
- Conducted research experiment on the biodiversity of reefs and lagoons, contributing to the understanding of local ecosystems.
- Assisted in marine research projects, collecting data to support ecological studies of local ecosystems.
- Acquired extensive snorkeling skills during marine research expeditions, along with data collection, data interpretation, and statistical analysis.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Marine Science, Minor in The Blount Scholars Program
UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA
Tuscaloosa, AL12-2026
Honors Diploma -
FAYETTE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL
Fayette, AL05-2023
Skills
- Data collection techniques
- Statistical analysis software
- Data Analysis
- Field sampling techniques
- Research Coordination
- Critical Thinking
- Problem-Solving Skills
- Adaptability
- Communication Skills
HONORS
Phi Beta Kappa Honors Society
VOLUNTEERING
- Black-Warrior Riverkeeper, 2023, Worked with the Marine Science Club to aid in river cleanup
- Aloe Bay Restoration - Dauphin Island, Dauphin Island, AL, 2025, Aided in coastal wetland restoration by planting 150 Spartina seedlings
INVOLVEMENT
- Marine Science Club
- UA Environmental Club
Timeline
Undergrad Research - Dr. Katrina Ramonell Lab
University of Alabama, Department of Biology
06.2026 - 08.2026
Undergrad Student Experience
Dauphin Island Sea Lab
05.2025 - 08.2025
Research Opportunity
Alabama Natural History Museum
08.2024 - 12.2024
Undergrad Student Experience
Belize Study Abroad
05.2024
Bachelor of Science - Marine Science, Minor in The Blount Scholars Program
UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA
Honors Diploma -
FAYETTE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL