Member Spotlight : Ollie Patterson
Learn more about what Ollie is doing in the field of Environmental Science below!
Learn more about what Ollie is doing in the field of Environmental Science below!
Ollie is one of our dedicated members is actively contributing to environmental science through research in three LSU labs. In the Public Health Ecology Lab (Dr. Bui), the focus is on community resilience to natural disasters and tracking methyl mercury accumulation in fish. In the Marine Benthic Ecology Lab (Dr. Glaspie), research centers on monitoring population density in lower trophic level invertebrates. In the Aquatic Toxicology Lab (Dr. Doering), the work involves studying bacterial protein responses to environmental stressors—ultimately building computer models to predict future oceanographic toxicity. This interdisciplinary approach spans public health, marine ecosystems, and molecular toxicology. Over the summer, this member also completed a research-focused internship with the Gulf Scholars Program, further strengthening their impact on coastal and community health.
How is this experience influencing your future career?
"Research is something I’m very passionate about because the areas of study are so broad and it allows me to explore whatever questions I may have about the world."
What is the BEST part of the job?
"Field Work!!"
Ollie's advice to others looking for this opportunity:
"Do not be afraid to cold email professors and ask what they do, what skills and ideas are important in their lab, and if they have any openings. This is how I got two of my jobs."