Anna Ackerman Sustainability Summer Research Fellow Spotlight

Q. How will this summer research fellowship support your research efforts and future goals?

A. "The fellowship will support my efforts by allowing for an easier commute to Robinson Forest and promoting the beginning of a four-year research initiative in our local Kentucky environment. Tree productivity has not yet been explored in Kentucky, and the fellowship will help determine how forest microclimates impact watershed and ecosystem health. The fellowship will spread awareness and access to this research."

Q. Why is sustainability research important?

A. "Sustainability research is important to both extend the health of our planet and the people who live in it. More specifically, sustainably managed forests will help reduce severe weather events brought on by the climate crisis, which is why research in this area is so critical for our future."

Q. What advice would you give to other UK students thinking about doing research?

A. "Take any opportunity presented to you and be proactive! The best things you can do to get involved are reach out to faculty and sign up for the UK Undergraduate Research email list. Try research with different mentors to see what areas you are most interested in (it will always take some time to find your niche)."

The UK Office of Undergraduate Research's Sustainability Summer Research Fellowship program provides undergraduates with the opportunity to study in a wide variety of disciplines while doing intensive and self-directed research with a sustainability focus under the supervision of a faculty mentor.

Co-sponsored by the UK Student Sustainability Council