Greetings all- Please join us for a terrific week in the wilds of Maine just outside Acadia National Park’s Schoodic Peninsula at the Eagle Hill Institute.
Jessica Muhlin and Nic Blouin promise an exciting introductory week to marine algae. The algae are a complex group of organisms living in both freshwater and marine environments. This short course will focus on marine macroalgae, or seaweeds, and is designed to introduce taxonomic, systematic, physiological, and ecological aspects of Maine seaweeds. Through field, lecture, and laboratory experiences, we will survey the seaweeds and habitats found in the Gulf of Maine, examine the evolutionary processes that led to the diversification of seaweeds, and learn life histories as well as the processes that influence the distribution of seaweeds over space and time in the Gulf of Maine. We will also include a module on ethnobotany and the economic importance of seaweeds in the North Atlantic. The course is limited to 15 students to ensure an inimate learning environment. Complete information for associated costs, application information and details about Eagle Hill can be found here: http://www.eaglehill.us/index.shtml http://www.eaglehill.us/programs/nhs/nhs-calendar.shtml A Downloadable flyer can be accessed here: http://www.eaglehill.us/programs/nhs/seminar-flyer-pdfs/2015Seaweed_MuhlinBlouin.pdf Please email Jessie or Nic directly if you have any questions regarding the work plan for the week or are interested in college credit. Jessie Muhlin ([email protected]) is an Associate Professor of Marine Biology at Maine Maritime Academy where she teaches courses in the Corning School of Ocean Studies. Her research interests focus on the reproductive ecology, population genetics and food web ecology of fucoid seaweeds in the northwestern Atlantic. Jessie is also actively involved in art-science collaborations using marine algae as inspiration. She is committed to educating the public on the importance and fascinating aspects of the algae and she regularly presents in educator workshops. Nic Blouin ([email protected]) is a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Rhode Island. Nic’s primary scientific interests revolve around how evolutionary pressure drives adaptation in seaweeds. He uses a combination of field observations and whole genome data to understand how genomic changes affect life histories. Nic also has experience with seaweed aquaculture in Maine and in Asia, and has used intertidal collecting forays and art-making as a way to help students understand the interconnectivity of the environment and ecological success in the intertidal zone. Along with Jessie, Nic has extensive knowledge of Maine’s marine algal community. Jessie and Nic have been working together on various projects for over 10 yrs.
