Steph Smith

Writer

I earned my Ph.D. in Marine Sciences from the University of North Carolina studying horizontal gene transfer and bacterial interactions in beneficial marine symbioses (squid and their Vibrio bacteria!). As a postdoc at UNC’s Institute of Marine Sciences, my current research is focused on understanding the role of bacterial community structures linked to oyster mortality disease. I am especially excited when I get the chance to watch bacteria interact under the microscope, sift through fun genomes, or collect field samples (i.e. spend the day in a boat collecting oysters and squid). My favorite part of doing science is coming up with creative ways to answer complex questions. If I’m not listening to podcasts in the lab, you can find me fishing from a kayak or reading on the couch with my cats.

My articles

• Microscopic Warfare: T6SS in our Oceans May 13, 2024