The Cooperative Institute for Climate, Ocean, and Ecosystem Studies

Hey! My name is Cailey Plainte, and I am a rising junior at Simmons University. This summer, I had the opportunity to work with Dr. Will Ballentine to investigate how the shapes of barnacle larvae influence their interactions with surfaces. My project focused on using dynamically scaled models of different stages of barnacle larvae, the free-swimming nauplius stage and the cyprid stage, to explore two main questions: Do morphological differences between nauplii affect their interactions with surfaces? And does the transition from nauplius to cyprid provide hydrodynamic benefits to settlement?

As a student with a primarily biology-focused background, this project allowed me to develop skills with technological tools such as advanced coding and data visualization in RStudio, as well as CAD modeling for 3D printing. It also introduced me to new interdisciplinary concepts, such as fluid dynamics and its applications within biological research.

This program gave me valuable experience in a collaborative lab environment, allowing me to work with individuals from diverse educational backgrounds and offering insight into the different paths I can take to contribute to the world of environmental research. Although my project was primarily lab-based, I had the opportunity to join other lab members in the field to collect zooplankton samples, which gave me a first-hand look at what fieldwork entails. Additionally, the graduate school panel and various science talks allowed me to further explore possible career and educational pathways, and exposed me to research topics I might not have encountered otherwise.

Overall, CICOES offered an unforgettable experience that deepened my understanding of what it means to be a research scientist, which will undoubtedly benefit my future in the environmental sciences. I am endlessly grateful to everyone who made this program possible, and I hope to visit Seattle again in the future.

Project Introduction

Research Poster