CELS Summer Research Fellowship Program Continues a Legacy of Experiential Learning

August 3, 2026
As part of a CELS Summer Research Fellowship, Lewis Truckel is working with the technology that helps scientists study some of the ocean's most remote ecosystems.

This summer, 53 University of Rhode Island College of the Environment and Life Sciences (CELS) students are gaining hands-on research experience through the CELS Summer Research Fellowship Program, working alongside faculty mentors, industry professionals, and community partners on projects that range from coral reef restoration and wildlife conservation to sustainable agriculture and public health.

Now in its fourth decade, the program has provided more than 1,500 URI students with immersive research, extension, and outreach experiences that prepare them for careers in science and beyond.

A Few of This Summer’s Stories 

Marine biology student Zuzanna Bajer is helping researchers better understand Rhode Island’s summer flounder population by tagging fish off the state’s coast. The work supports fisheries management and conservation efforts.

“It feels good to know that I am helping sustain our summer flounder population so people in Rhode Island can eat them for many years to come,” she said.

In the URI Biocontrol Laboratory, Sharday Johnson is evaluating whether a decades-old biological control program continues to protect Rhode Island growers from an invasive agricultural pest, research that could reduce pesticide use while supporting local farms.

“The idea that my work positively impacts my community feels extremely fulfilling,” she said. “Especially since people can use this knowledge going forward.”

Other fellows are looking toward the future of forests and food systems.

Ava Backes hand-pollinates American chestnut flowers, part of a long-term effort to breed trees resistant to the blight that nearly wiped out the species.

Ava Backes is helping restore the American chestnut, breeding blight-resistant trees that could one day return a lost keystone species to its native range. “I believe we need to reciprocate the love and care that nature provides us,” she said.

Meanwhile, Noah Antonellis is studying whether infrared-blocking greenhouse film can lower energy use without reducing crop growth, research that could make greenhouse production more sustainable. “It contributes to creating a more sustainable future,” he said.

In the Department of Natural Resources Science, Makenzie Denzler is analyzing camera-trap data to better understand Rhode Island’s flying squirrel population. Meanwhile, Miranda Lin is investigating immune responses in wild ducks to improve scientists’ understanding of avian influenza.

Evan Morgan is studying the emotional responses of critically endangered African penguins. Using thermal imaging to measure subtle changes in facial temperature, the research could help zoos and aquariums better understand penguin welfare, reduce stress, and improve the success of conservation breeding programs.

“Our results are suggesting that penguins do show emotion through the temperature of their face,” Morgan said.

Some fellows are asking fundamental scientific questions that may have long-term applications. Megan Malone is studying genes involved in plant cell wall development, research that could eventually help scientists develop more resilient and productive crops.

Beyond Rhode Island, students are also conducting research internationally. Led by Professor Graham Forrester, fellows are participating in coral restoration efforts in the Caribbean, transplanting vulnerable corals to protected reef sites and gaining firsthand experience with one of the world’s most pressing marine conservation challenges.

New Opportunities for Professional Growth

Miranda Lin is studying how the immune systems of wild diving ducks respond to avian influenza.

This year also marks the launch of the Kirby Fellowship, a new professional development track available to every CELS Summer Research Fellow.

In addition to their research, Kirby Fellows participate in weekly workshops, receive enhanced mentorship, and build professional skills that complement their scientific training. Fellows who complete the program earn a gold seal on their fellowship certificate recognizing their achievement.

The initiative is coordinated by Camila Quiroga and Josh Rodriguez, both former CELS Summer Research Fellows who now serve as program assistant coordinators. In addition to mentoring participants, they organize workshops, housing, recreational activities, and site visits throughout the summer.

The fellowship program also continues to grow through new partnerships. Beginning this year, a collaboration with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management will fund and host at least one fellow annually. The program also welcomed new faculty mentors Sarah Kienle, Patrick Sorensen, and Johanna Harvey.

Sharday Johnson uses a sweep net to collect insects as part of her project studying natural pest control in Rhode Island agriculture.

Investing in Future Scientists

Many of this year’s fellowships are made possible through the generosity of URI donors who believe in the value of experiential learning. Their support enables students to gain hands-on research experience, build professional networks, and develop the skills needed to address complex environmental and societal challenges.

More than 30 years after it began, the CELS Summer Research Fellowship Program continues to demonstrate the power of experiential learning, preparing students for meaningful careers while advancing research that benefits Rhode Island and communities around the world.