We talk a lot about the real-world implications of our students’ research — and the professors who are right there alongside our Spider scientists. The latest example comes out of the biology department with professor Carrie Wu and her class’ project near Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay. 

The UR team is conducting field surveys at the Dameron Marsh Natural Area Preserve for the presence of invasive reeds common in wetlands. 

“Following our field collections, we conduct genetic analyses to confirm whether the reeds are invasive or native,” Wu said. 

Their findings are then used by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation to determine how the preserves are managed in the future, as well as the best ways to communicate with stakeholders.

We continue to be proud of all the research happening daily on our campus!