M.Sc.
Co-supervised by Robert Scheibling (Dept. of Biology, Dalhousie University)
Current research
My research focuses on the effects of increasing seawater temperatures on the kelp bed forming species Saccharina latissima, Laminaria digitata and Agarum clathratum. I am examining the direct effects of temperature on the growth, tissue structure, strength and chemical composition of the kelp species. I am then asking how temperature may alter interactions between the kelp species and the invasive encrusting bryozoan Membranipora membranacea, and between the kelps and their native herbivore Lacuna vincta.
Education
Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS
M.Sc.Candidate
January 2013-2015
Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC
B.Sc. Biology (Honours); 2003-08
Thesis: Regulation of root system architecture in salt stress conditions.
Supervisor: Dr. Aine Plant
Scholarship and awards
NSERC Alexandre Graham Bell Canada Graduate Scholarship (Master’s), 2012 Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre Excellence in Teaching Award, 2010 Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre Undergraduate Scholarship, 2006-2007 Simon Fraser University Undergraduate Open Scholarship, 2004-2008 BC Summit Entrance Scholarship, Simon Fraser University, 2003
Presentations
Simonson E., Metaxas, A. & Scheibling, R.E. (2014). Temperature induced changes in kelp tissue increase feeding rate of a gastropod mesograzer. Benthic Ecology Meeting. March 19-22, 2011. Jacksonville, Florida, USA.
Simonson E., Metaxas, A. & Scheibling, R.E. (2014). Temperature induced changes in kelp tissue increase feeding rate of a gastropod mesograzer. Patrick Lett Biology Graduate Student Symposium. March 14, 2014. Halifax, NS, Canada.
Simonson, E., Clement, K. & Stewart, A. (2011). Climate change on planet ocean: connecting with Alberta curriculum. Oral Presentation at the Alberta Teachers Association Science Council Conference. October 21-22, 2011. Lake Louise, AB.
Work and volunteer experience
- Marine Science Educator, February 2009-December 2012 Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre, Bamfield, BC
- Volunteer Adult Education Tutor, February-May 2012 Bamfield Community School Association, Bamfield BC
- Teaching Assistant, Temporate Rainforest Ecology, Summer 2010 Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre, Bamfield, BC
Accreditations
Small Vessel Operator’s Proficiency License (SVOP) Marine Emergency Duties (MED A3) Restricted Operators Certificate (Maritime) (ROC(M)) Marine First Aid with CPR-C and AED Pleasure Craft Operators Card (PCOC)