Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

Research in the Coastal Disease Ecology Laboratory at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center includes a wide range of topics related to parasite and infectious disease ecology in coastal aquatic ecosystems. This research examines the diversity, abundance, and host specificity of both micro- and macroparasites that infect a range of marine hosts, from crustaceans to seagrasses. Fieldwork for collecting host samples utilizes kayaking, seining, trawling, sediment cores, and water samples. Laboratory techniques typically include dissections and genetic methods.

Researchers at SERC have been conducting long-term monitoring of communities in the Rhode River, including benthic surveys, monitoring oyster beds, and nearshore surveys. Interns participate in these surveys, dissect the animals collected, and record the prevalence, diversity, and abundance of parasites found in each host. 

Additionally, all interns and volunteers have the opportunity to conduct independent research projects that are within the scope of the Coastal Disease Ecology lab, the focus of which varies depending on available funding.

For more information about our research projects, check out our Coastal Disease Research Projects.
For more information on how to apply for an internship at SERC, visit the Internships page.