HBOI Grad Student Awarded Aylesworth Scholarship

FAU graduate student Megan Conkling, who is pursuing her master's degree in Biology and conducting research at Harbor Branch, is one of only two Florida students who were recently awarded the Ayelsworth Scholarship. Conkling is studying the ecological implications of sponge-sponge associations in nature under the guidance of research professor Dr. Shirley Pomponi. The Aylesworth Scholarship is a joint program of the Aylesworth Foundation for the Advancement of Marine Science, the Southeastern Fisheries Association and the Florida Sea Grant College Program (click here to read the scholarship announcement from Florida Sea Grant.) 

"I am very grateful for this scholarship and the opportunities it will open for my research and myself," said Conkling. "I would like to thank my advisor, Dr. Pomponi, for giving me the opportunity to prove myself at school and in the lab. I would also like to thank my parents for supporting me in following my dreams."

Upon completing her education, Conkling plans on pursuing a career as a research scientist with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.