As a research assistant, Environment & Sustainability BDP Student Danielle Zaleski collected sediment samples from Austin's lakes, which was used in a project that studied the correlation between sediment microplastics and population density.
"Seeing samples from Austin's lakes that are full of microplastics helped put into perspective the urgency of plastic pollution, cementing my plans to find a career that allows me to protect the environment.”
What was the name of the lab and/or title of the research project?
Correlation of Sediment Microplastics with Population Density in Austin’s Waterways
How did you find this research assistantship?
I found this research assistantship from an email seeking undergraduate researchers from the Jackson School of Geosciences email list.
What kind of work did you do as a research assistant and what did you learn through this experience?
As a research assistant, my duties include collecting sediment samples from Austin’s lakes. The samples were processed in the UT Institute for Geophysics’ sediment lab and then analyzed using a microscope and an image-processing program. My main duty was microplastic count, where I sorted through filtered sediment to count and categorize microplastic particles using ImageJ. Through this experience, I learned many valuable lab and analysis skills, which will help me through my future career.
What was the most rewarding aspect of your Connecting Experience?
The most rewarding aspect of my Connecting Experience was reflecting on the importance of this project on a larger scale. The data that is being analyzed is extremely meaningful and relevant today, as plastic pollution and microplastics are urgent topics of concern. It's very rewarding to recognize that my work has the potential to influence positive policy change and alert the public to environmental concerns.
In what ways has this Connecting Experience shaped your plans for the future?
Seeing samples from Austin's lakes that are full of microplastics helped put into perspective the urgency of plastic pollution, cementing my plans to find a career that allows me to protect the environment. I learned the importance of connecting environmental science with advocacy and communication, and I hope to have experiences in the future that help me connect those skills.