Jenny Stern
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT | SEPTEMBER 2014
Major: Ecology & Evolutionary Biology
Research project: My research project examines the projected effects of climate change on phenology of two different types of tree physiology. The phenological measure (timing of events) that we use to compare the different types of tree is measured by the date of leaves emerging on trees in research forests.
Research mentors: Joy Ward and Jacob Carter
Q: What surprised you about doing research?
A: I was so surprised at how applicable my research has been to my main area of interest. I have always been interested in marine organisms and it was fascinating to learn about the effect of climate change on entire ecosystems.
Q: What do you like most about your research?
A: Climate change research is really cool because it can be applied on so many different scales. It’s really interesting that the implications of physiology on individual plants can have such a worldly effect.
Q: What advice would you give to a friend wanting to get involved in research?
A: When looking for research opportunities, keep an open mind. You never know what you can become passionate about and what will interest you. Also, never be afraid to ask questions; people are always willing to help.
Q: How do you spend your time when you're not doing research?
A: I volunteer at Prairie Park Nature Center, work as a Biology PLUS leader, and teach swim lessons. I also write an environmental and animal-themed opinion column for the University Daily Kansan.