Savanna Palmer, a student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign majoring in Integrative Biology Honors, recently completed an internship under Mark Davis in the Collaborative Conservation Genetic Lab (CCGL) at the Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS), part of the Prairie Research Institute. As a participant in the Graduate College’s Summer Research Opportunities Program, Savanna got hands on experience in conservation biology, stimulating her interest in environmental justice and science. In this Q&A, she shares insights into her project, her learning experiences, and her future plans.
Q: Where do you go to school and what are you studying?
A: I attend the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where I am studying Integrative Biology Honors.
Q: What sparked your interest in your field?
A: I became interested in conservation biology by connecting my favorite subject in school—biology—with my desire to contribute to solving climate change issues. I have always had a passion for the intersection of environmental justice and science!
Q: Can you describe your internship experience?
A: This summer, I worked on an independent project that tested the capabilities of using environmental DNA to monitor two species, the Common Mudpuppy and the Salamander Mussel. Due to population decline, these species are difficult to monitor via conventional surveying, yet have a captivating symbiotic relationship.
Q: What did you learn during the internship? Did anything surprise you or shift your thinking?
A: I have been fortunate to learn more about how to apply and survive in graduate school. Although I still have a year before applications start, I am excited to begin exploring possible mentors and programs.
Q: What was the best part of your internship experience?
A: The best part of this experience was meeting and working with all of the awesome people in my lab. Although I am the youngest, they have become great friends of mine.
Q: How do you think your internship might affect your studies or your career path?
A: My overarching goal has always been to go into graduate school, but this internship has proved that I am super passionate about conservation biology, and I can be more confident in my future!
Q: What do you plan to do after your internship is over?
A: When my internship is over, I will be beginning my junior year at the U of I. I will be continuing my Mudpuppy/Mussel work in the CCGL under Mark Davis. I am super excited to expand my summer work into a complete project!
Q: Is there anything else you'd like to add?
A: I would like to thank Brian Wilm from the INHS Wetlands Group for adding me to the team and introducing me to Mark Davis. Without Brian, I would not be here today!