Research Scientist

Dr. Emily (Molly) Roberts
Molly is a Postdoctoral Associate studying the effects of ocean warming and acidification on the swimming behavior and dispersal of larval Atlantic surfclam. Molly’s background is in the physiology and ecology of shellfish and algae in rocky shore, sandy beach, and pelagic environments – specifically looking at the effect of temperature, ocean chemistry, and food availability on shellfish. To better understand animals living in these environments, Molly builds models from lab experiments and tests them in field environments. In her work, Molly draws on an interest in biomechanics (e.g. mussel byssal thread attachment, larval swimming behaviors), integrative physiology (e.g. thermal biology, algal sunscreens), and ocean chemistry research (e.g. ocean acidification). Molly has also had the opportunity to work with mussel farmers, teacher-centered climate learning networks, and fisheries managers – Most recently, she facilitated a workshop hosted by NOAA Fisheries on adding Ecosystem and Socioeconomic information to fisheries management. Molly’s favorite hobbies are running, paddleboarding, and finding books at independent bookstores.

 

Previous Postdocs and Visiting Scientists:

Dr. Younes Bouallagui
Dr Sarah Farhat
Dr Sleiman Bassim
Dr Amelie Segarra
Dr Carmelo del Castillo
Dr Xing Jing
Dr Raul Bettencourt
Dr Selma Katalai