Phoebe Churney

Phoebe Churney is a Master’s student in the Brady lab studying on Gulf of Maine kelp forests. Her research investigates how temperature and chemical stressors impact the physiology of kelp gametophytes and the restoration potential of Saccharina latissima (sugar kelp).

She first became interested in kelp forests during her 2022 OWUSS/AAUS internship with Bigelow Laboratory and Shane Farrell, where she conducted statewide kelp forest surveys and environmental DNA (eDNA) research. She earned her B.S. in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations (USCG Mate 200 GRT Near Coastal) from Maine Maritime Academy.

Before beginning graduate school, Phoebe held a range of internship and research roles involving scientific diving, conservation, molecular work, and time at sea as a Mate on the R/V Point Sur. She is excited to continue contributing to kelp research in her home state of Maine.