Rachel Schwartz is an associate professor in URI’s Department of Biological Sciences who teaches Genetics, Big Data Analysis, and a variety of hands-on courses to help students learn to do research and analyze data. Professor Schwartz is interested in training researchers to efficiently and effectively manage and analyze their data, as well as to apply novel methods that she is developing to understand genome diversity and evolution.

Graduating senior James Gbaba, who will receive his degree in cell and molecular biology, found a welcoming community at URI—as well as his niche in health research.

In 2018, Bradley Wetherbee, a longtime professor of biological sciences, began what is now known as URI Shark Camp as a way to introduce students from underserved communities to the biological sciences and to marine science programs at URI. Rhode Island students are invited to apply to this year’s program, July 21 to 25.

Three students majoring in medical laboratory science recently won awards for research posters presented at the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science – Central New England conference held in Warwick, RI.

Eleni Mouyos, a sophomore double majoring in marine biology and ocean engineering, has been awarded a 2025 Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the most prestigious scholarship awarded to undergraduates in marine sciences.

Marine Biology major Lindsey Reimels has been active in a variety of research projects at URI, including microplastic accumulation in Narragansett Bay and the uptake of microplastic ingestion by baleen whales.

Thirty-seven Portsmouth High School students got the chance to see practical applications of what they are learning in a recent visit to the plant and biotechnology lab of Albert Kausch, URI professor of cell and molecular biology. Along with the tour, the students visited the University’s medicinal gardens.

At URI’s Peckham Farm, undergraduate animal science and technology majors such as Brandon Ferro (pictured) learn modern animal training techniques as part of a course on animal behavioral research. Understanding how animals behave and what influences their behavior are crucial components of conservation efforts.

A new undergraduate track will prepare students to address pressing environmental concerns in a wide range of industries.

El Fernekees, a senior double majoring in gender and women’s studies and marine biology, combines their two majors to approach science from an interdisciplinary perspective.