Life Sciences Research Fellows

Howdy, I’m Bryce Martin. I grew up in New Orleans, Louisiana. While there, my passion for aquatic ecosystems was kindled by exposure to incredible wetland habitat that was brimming with countless forms of life. In particular, small freshwater and euryhaline members of the Fundulidae and Centrarchidae families entrance me. Just this past summer, however, my family and I moved to Benton Tennessee. During my short time so far in this wonderful state, I have already grown to love and adore stream ecology. I am endlessly impressed by the variability of the ichthyofauna I find in this region, and I am looking forward to learning all I can about aquatic ecosystems and the fascinating creatures that inhabit them. As for hobbies, I am a tropical fish breeder/keeper and naturalist who adores hiking and kayaking. Just the thought of this research fellowship makes me extraordinarily excited, and I am looking forward to meeting my fellow researchers.

My name is Adeline Smith, and I am a freshman from Birmingham, Alabama. I am thrilled to be a Life Sciences Research Fellow! My interest in biology sprang from a love of my high school science classes, specifically chemistry. I plan to study biochemistry at Sewanee and look forward to finding a research interest that ignites my passion for science! I cannot wait to become more involved in the Sewanee community through research opportunities, student organizations, and more!

Hey, my name is Kara Taylor! I am in the class of 2028, and I'm from Chattanooga, TN. I plan to major in biochemistry and follow the pre-pharm track, with hopes to pursue a career in pharmaceutical research. While I do not have a specific interest yet, I wish to focus on molecular biology or something chemistry related that will pour into my curiosity for human health. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a research fellow because it will give me more experience and a better understanding to one day help improve the lives of people through health and medicine. I enjoy spending time with a friendly face, exploring new areas, and other fun activities that keep me from spending all my time online!

Hi, I’m Avery Kievit. I am a first-year student from Wilmington, North Carolina. I am so excited to be a Life Sciences Research Fellow, and my passion for biology stems from my interest in Sewanee’s pre-health program, specifically on the pre-medicine track. With this, I intend to study integrative biology. I do not have a specific research focus yet, but it will certainly be regarding human health, and how I can help others through my research. Outside of academics, I am on the Women’s Soccer team, and I enjoy hiking, reading, spending time with friends and family, and simply just being in nature!

My name is Lilah von Gruenigen, and I am from Knoxville, Tennessee. Ever since I was little I can remember the joys of playing in the creek and feeling the calm beneath my feet. I didn’t know it at the time but there was a whole other world just below me. Getting to explore new places and study the world around me and how different organisms interact was fascinating. As I got older, I ventured off into more biology-related things like wildflower hikes, participating in non-native plant removals, and educating the public on the importance of conservation efforts. My main focus is in herpetology due to the insights I have gained about amphibians and reptiles. The amphibian that interests me the most is the Spotted Salamander! Their cute demeanor and fossorial traits have always intrigued me. My other hobbies involve working out, paddle boarding, exploring art museums, and bowling. My plan at Sewanee is to major in biology on the ecology and biodiversity track. In the future, I hope to attend graduate school for my career as an environmental consultant. I am incredibly honored to start my biology journey through the Life Science Fellowship and look forward to working and learning from these amazing professors and fellow students. 

Hi, I’m Hazel White. I am from Knoxville Tennessee. I am interested in many things related to biology including molecular biology. I don’t have a specific focus yet, but I am excited to explore the options. I became interested in biology because of my classes in high school. I have worked in a microbiology lab for two summers. I enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and Ultimate frisbee. I am really excited to get to meet the faculty and other students at Sewanee and to explore the domain.

Hello! I am Kinsley Reid and I am from Nashville, Tennessee. I love the study of Biology and I am so grateful to have this opportunity! I am planning on studying Biodiversity and Ecology, particularly in caves. In my free time, I enjoy acting, hiking, playing bass guitar and hanging out with my cat. I look forward to working with the Biology department!

Hey! I’m Lily Bowers, and I’m from Memphis, Tennessee. I am interested in all things science and I am SO excited about this opportunity. I am mostly interested in both psychology and environmental sciences- especially forestry and sustainability. Outside of academics I enjoy live music, hiking, paddle boarding, and exploring! I am so excited for the next four years on this beautiful mountain!