Nicole Vozovoy

Undergraduate integrative biology student with a strong foundation in physical–biological interactions, climate-driven marine systems, and data-driven analysis. Trained in laboratory and quantitative methods, including DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, and R-based data analysis, with coursework spanning marine biology, ecology, genetics, and environmental systems. Experienced in working with observational and experimental datasets, synthesizing results from primary literature, and communicating findings through scientific posters and written reports. Seeking a summer research opportunity at the Marine Physical Laboratory to build technical and analytical skills in oceanographic research with a focus on areas connecting ocean physics, sensing (acoustics/optics), and marine ecosystems under climate change.

Interdisciplinary research integrating paleobiology, conservation biology, climate science, and anthropology to understand long-term ecological change and inform biodiversity conservation.

Paleobiology & Conservation
Vertebrate and invertebrate paleontology, paleoecology, and paleoclimatology to reconstruct past biodiversity patterns.
Conservation paleobiology: using near- and deep-time records to establish baselines, assess human impacts, and guide conservation strategies.

Polar Marine Systems
Climate-driven change in polar ecosystems, including warming, sea ice loss, and food-web restructuring
Interest in applying functional morphology, phylogenetic inference, and emerging molecular approaches (e.g., metagenomics, transcriptomics) across timescales.

Human Dimensions of Environmental Change
Integration of historical archives, Indigenous knowledge, and cultural records with biological data
Interest in how colonialism, land use, and cultural practices intersect with biodiversity change and conservation.

Non-destructive DNA extraction & phytoplasma risk modeling

Illinois Natural History Survey - Valeria Trivellone

• Contributed to the development and testing of a non-destructive, resin-based DNA extraction protocol for insect museum voucher specimens.
• Assisted with experimental testing of protocol variables, including prelysis bleaching and proteinase K inactivation, and evaluated effects on DNA quality and yield.
• Performed and assisted with DNA extraction, qPCR analysis, and downstream molecular applications.
• Contributed to data collection and literature synthesis for a machine-learning model predicting global phytoplasma outbreak risk, integrating historical outbreak data with newly documented insect vector occurrences.
• Assisted in identifying and interpreting predictors of vector–host–phytoplasma interactions and differences between natural and agricultural ecosystems.