UROP Project
wetland, water quality, amphibian, invertebrate, water chemistry
Research Mentor: Rebecca Means, she/her
Department, College, Affiliation: Conservation Pathways, N/A
Contact Email: RebeccaPharrM@gmail.com
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Conservation Pathways, N/A
Contact Email: RebeccaPharrM@gmail.com
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: No
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Biology, Environmental Science, Environmental Science/Policy,
Project Location: 2106 N Meridian Rd, Thomasville, GA 31792
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 8,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Tuesday Sept 3, 10-10:30 am (https://us05web.zoom.us/j/82751116546?pwd=REbn3TxCfxe0s9zfMlqYTVSxTKdtB7.1)
Thursday, Sept 5, 4-4:30 (https://us05web.zoom.us/j/81993627319?pwd=eRygHAr9SYR3WhyJrL72kKdwWN1azO.1)
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Biology, Environmental Science, Environmental Science/Policy,
Project Location: 2106 N Meridian Rd, Thomasville, GA 31792
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 8,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Tuesday Sept 3, 10-10:30 am (https://us05web.zoom.us/j/82751116546?pwd=REbn3TxCfxe0s9zfMlqYTVSxTKdtB7.1)
Thursday, Sept 5, 4-4:30 (https://us05web.zoom.us/j/81993627319?pwd=eRygHAr9SYR3WhyJrL72kKdwWN1azO.1)
Project Description
We will be conducting an assessment of the wetlands on Birdsong Nature Center to assess their quality and condition. Student will research various methods that are used to assess the quality of wetlands. These may include, but are not limited to, water chemistry parameters, upland condition assessment, and invertebrate, amphibian, vegetation community sampling. Student will develop a step-by-step methodology to the assessment and a materials list. We will take trips on site for inspiration, to test methodologies, and if time allows, to conduct an assessment of a wetland. Transportation to the Nature Preserve will be provided as needed.Research Tasks: Literature review, writing methodology, data collection, possibly data analysis
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: ability to conduct literature searches, especially related to journal articles recommended
ability to summarize information learned during searches required
Interest in wetland ecology and field work recommended
Mentoring Philosophy
My mentoring philosophy centers on fostering an environment of open communication and creative exploration. I believe that every individual brings unique strengths to the table, and my role as a mentor is to help identify, cultivate, and build upon these strengths. Open communication is the key to this relationship. By establishing a partnership where both mentor and mentee feel valued as individuals, we can collaboratively set goals, address challenges, and celebrate successes.I encourage exploring challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities for growth and learning. By working together to find creative solutions, we can turn these challenges into stepping stones for personal and professional development. Feedback plays a crucial role in this process, and I very much value frequent discussions about what is working and what is not working. Two-way exchange of feedback helps to foster continuous improvement and deeper understanding.
Exposure to diverse experiences is also a key element of my mentoring approach. By providing opportunities to explore different topics and methodologies, engage with different professionals, and to participate in a wide range of field experiences, I aim to broaden the mentee’s horizons and help them develop a well-rounded skill set. Whether it’s through hands-on projects, networking, or other forms of experiential learning, I believe that real-world experiences are invaluable in preparing individuals for future challenges.
Ultimately, my goal as a mentor is to inspire and guide others on their journey to uncovering their full potential, providing them with the tools, confidence, and perspective to succeed.