69 Research Reflection by Megan Jones

Faculty Mentor: Kathleen Ritterbush (Geology and Geophysics, University of Utah)

I have had the wonderful opportunity to research Paper Nautilus with my mentor and colleagues this summer. The research included using 3D scanning technology to create testable digital models and then using coding to quantify differences between the shells. Throughout my summer, I gained confidence researching, using new software, and insight on what I would like to study as I continue onto a PhD.

The project utilized three softwares that were new to me. Learning these three softwares was a challenging but rewarding aspect of my work. The first step in the research was to take 3D partial scans, edit away extraneous points, and align similar scans. When I first learned the software, completing a shell took me multiple hours. As I got more practice forming the digital models, I was able to decrease the time it took. Over time, I noticed greater efficiency in the amount of time it took to complete steps with other softwares as well. Seeing my progress with the new softwares was a rewarding experience, as I gained more confidence and knowledge. This knowledge will help me continue to use these softwares in the future and be more adaptable to learn new softwares as well.

This project helped me narrow down what I would like to study as I pursue a PhD. Part of the implications of and next steps for the research has to do with the relationship of the rib ornamentation of the shells and hydrodynamics. Ocean acidification can make forming a larger shell more difficult and more susceptible to pH, therefore having a varied effect among Paper Nautilus species. I went into this summer knowing I wanted to study oceanography, but I was not sure what aspect or field within oceanography. Observing and thinking about the interconnectivity of the oceans, and consequences of one change for other aspects of the ecosystem, was very interesting to me. Considering the interconnectivity of the ecosystem made me realize I am interested in studying marine ecology specifically.

Being involved in research this summer helped me gain skills that will help me in my research and future academics. Coding and 3D modeling were vital skills I learned, that I can continue using with this project and future projects.