Student Research Spotlights: Passion, Persistence, and Discovery at NSU

At Nova Southeastern University, student researchers are pushing boundaries in marine science, chemistry, and parasitology, often starting their journeys with curiosity and a bold question. This month, we highlight three exceptional students whose work exemplifies the spirit of exploration and academic excellence at NSU. 

 

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Lauren Nonnenmacher: Mapping Metals and Making Waves 

Lauren Nonnenmacher graduated in May 2025 with a B.S. in Chemistry, complemented by minors in GIS and Marine Biology. Her research journey began with sediment sampling in Port Everglades and evolved into a global study of heavy metal contamination in geologically active regions. Her project focused on volcanic sediment in Hawai‘i, analyzing ecological risks using advanced indices and ICPMS technology. 

Lauren’s work has earned her national recognition, including presentations at ACS conferences in New Orleans and San Diego, and first place at NSU’s Undergraduate Student Symposium. She was also honored as the South Florida ACS Outstanding Graduating Senior and one of Halmos College’s Outstanding Students of the Year. 

Her advice to aspiring researchers? “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Reach out, ask questions, and stay curious.” 

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Alexia Hilber: Parasites, Birds, and the Power of Mentorship 

Alexia Hilber, a second-year Master’s student in Marine Science, is uncovering the hidden world of parasites in Florida’s wading birds. Her research began as an undergraduate in Dr. Dave Kerstetter’s lab, where she transitioned from bird dissections to a thesis exploring parasite communities in species like herons, egrets, and spoonbills. 

Alexia’s work has taken her to conferences across the Americas, earning her awards and building a network of ornithologists and parasitologists. She’s mentored undergraduates, contributed to public education through wildlife centers, and plans to publish multiple papers from her findings. 

“I never expected to become an avian parasitologist,” she says. “But I found a topic that fit me, and mentors who believed in me.” 

 

 

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Delaney Deinlein: Coral Genetics and Climate Resilience 

Currently pursuing a Master’s in Marine Science, Delaney Deinlein began their research journey with a self-proposed project outside of formal research programs. Their study investigates seasonal shifts in zooxanthellae—photosynthetic microorganisms living in coral—across South Florida’s reef tract. 

Despite challenges in funding, equipment access, and balancing a full-time job, Delaney secured grants and lab support to analyze coral tissue samples. Their findings suggest seasonal changes in symbiotic communities and offer new methods for minimally invasive coral sampling. 

They credit NSU’s faculty and labs for enabling their success and plan to continue research with the Coral Reef Restoration, Assessment, and Monitoring (CRRAM) lab eventually pursuing a PhD and a career in academia. 

Delaney’s advice: “Treat each setback like an opportunity. Every challenge is a puzzle waiting to be solved.”

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