PEOPLE

Principal Investigator

Dr. Meredith Holgerson (PI)
Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Corson Hall
Cornell University

EEB Profile
Google Scholar
Email: meredith.holgerson [at] cornell.edu

ab3223 [at] cornell.edu

PhD Students

Meredith Theus

I am a graduate student in the Holgerson lab and am interested in ecosystem ecology and the ways in which phytoplankton and other organisms interact with and influence the chemical environment. I received my undergraduate degree in biology from Reed College where my research focused on the interactive effects of multiple abiotic factors on phytoplankton populations and communities. In the Holgerson lab, I hope to develop a better understanding of how biotic factors and processes, such as food web structure and phytoplankton community dynamics, affect carbon cycling in ponds. Generally, I am also interested in how human activity affects aquatic ecosystems. If I am not doing work, then you can find me doing some gardening, attempting to master embroidery, or playing with my dog!

Email: met224 [at] cornell.edu

Kathy Stenehjem

As a graduate student in the Holgerson Lab, I am studying biogeochemistry and freshwater ecosystem ecology. I’m particularly interested in the abiotic and biotic drivers of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus cycles in small freshwater systems. Before coming to Cornell, I completed a B.S. in Conservation Biology & Microbiology at the University of Wisconsin – Madison and spent four years working at the USGS Upper Midwest Water Science Center studying phosphorus mobility in urban stormwater ponds and green infrastructure best practices. Outside of work, you can find me cycling, cooking, hiking, or trying to learn a new musical instrument.

Email: kjs297 [at] cornell.edu

Ellie Socha

I’m a PhD student originally from the cheese state, Wisconsin! My primary research interests surround how seasons are connected and impact aquatic ecosystem processes in the context of changing climate.  Specifically, I hope to explore how seasonal succession and biological community composition might change as temperate ponds “green,” “brown,” and experience milder winters. Prior to starting at Cornell, I received my Master’s in Freshwater and Marine Science from the University of Wisconsin – Madison at the Center for Limnology. There, I studied how future winters with less snow might impact under-ice plankton communities. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my mom, watching reality TV, canoeing and hiking, and crocheting.

Email: es873 [at] cornell.edu

Kaci Zarek

I am a PhD student interested in greenhouse gas dynamics, redox, aquatic-terrestrial linkages, and N and C cycling in freshwater systems, whether that be a pond, wetland, or stream or a combination of all three. Prior to Cornell, I received my MS in Biological Sciences from the University of Alabama (Rolltide) that focused on nitrogen removal versus export in headwaters across an annual drying event. Prior to Bama, I obtained my BS in Environmental Studies at the University of Kansas (Rockchalk), where I learned my love for team science and aquatic biogeochemistry! Beyond research, you can find me watching football and softball, going for walks, mountain biking, doing yoga, arm wrestling, and admiring sunsets.

Email: kz367 [at] cornell.edu

Undergraduates

Mira Lamble

I am a sophomore from Seattle, WA. I’m studying Biological Sciences with a concentration in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology in the College of Arts and Sciences. I plan to minor in either Climate Change or Fungal Biology. This past summer, I helped to sample ponds across four ecoregions of New York state. I am especially interested in the Holgerson lab’s work with greenhouse gas cycling. Outside of academics, I enjoy rock climbing, backpacking, playing violin, and teaching through Cornell Outdoor Education. Email: ml2668 [at] cornell.edu

Caroline Darling {Info coming soon}

Sophia Pushlar {Info coming soon}

Hunter Heyden {Info coming soon}

Andrew Wheeler {Info coming soon}