The Program in Interdisciplinary Approaches to Climate Change Adaptation Research and Training (PIACCART), a National Science Foundation-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program hosted by the School of Geosciences, brought together undergraduate students from across the country to USF鈥檚 St. Petersburg campus this summer.
The program provided students with diverse backgrounds, united by a shared passion for climate change research, an interdisciplinary research experience like no other.
PIACCART students transferring extracted samples into bottles. From left to right, Katherin Abreus Rodriguez, Mary Langer, and Katherine Hallee. (Photo Courtesy of Katherin Abreus Rodriguez).
Christina Cummings with her research findings at the REU poster symposium (photo courtesy of Christina Cummings)
Employing multi-level analysis to better understand barriers and facilitators of social, cultural, economic, political, and scientific issues of climate change adaptation, the PIACCART program is meant to enhance the participants鈥� experience and build on their interdisciplinary research knowledge and skills 鈥� preparing them to be ready to conduct graduate-level research while they further their careers.
This PIACCART REU summer program provided interdisciplinary research experiences related
to climate change adaptation, as well as to have a better understanding of climate
change adaptation challenges facing the United States and the world.鈥�
鈥淭he REU has enhanced my student experience greatly because not only did it provide
me with another great addition to my resume, but it also taught me about how to navigate
and find different USF departments when needed, such as the Office of National Scholars
(ONS), The High Impact Practices & Undergraduate Research (HIPUR) Office, Career Services,
etc.,鈥� said Katherin Abreus Rodriguez, who will graduate with a bachelor鈥檚 in chemistry
in 2025.
鈥淚 learned about the many benefits of going to graduate school and where to find who I can ask for help when filling out an application, making me feel more confident about this process,鈥� Abreus added.
Students conducted research in areas ranging from analyzing how information on climate
change is issued, to the effects of climate change on human health, and how Tampa
Bay has adapted to climate change issues in minority communities.
鈥淚鈥檓 deeply committed to addressing climate change, both from a social and environmental
perspective,鈥� sustainability studies major Christina Cummings said.
鈥淧articipating in this research aligns perfectly with my passions and provided me with invaluable experience in my field, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change and promote environmental justice,鈥� she added.
Some PIACCART undergraduate students with their program mentor, Dr. Richard Mbatu at REU poster symposium. (Photo courtesy of Christina Cummings)
PIACCART undergraduate students at REU poster symposium. (Photo courtesy of Christina Cummings)
鈥淭he highlight of this opportunity has been the invaluable networking opportunities provided through this program. I have gained profound insights from my mentors, and established connections that will significantly contribute to my professional growth and long-term career success. These relationships have not only broadened my knowledge and skills but also opened doors to future collaborations and opportunities in my field,鈥� Cummings said.
Learn about the other REU opportunities offered at USF.