Mentors play a crucial role within the Iowa Sciences Academy (ISA), contributing significantly to its programs and the students it serves. They serve a vital role for ISA students, facilitating research opportunities, connections with professors, and engagement with other science-focused peers. In this edition of the newsletter, we are delighted to introduce Dr. Susan Meerdink, an ISA mentor and Assistant Professor in the Department of Geographical and Sustainability Sciences within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Dr. Meerdink, a native of Iowa, holds a Bachelor of Science in Geographical Information Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Ecology and Systematics, both earned from the University of Northern Iowa. With the goal of deepening her understanding of machine learning and artificial intelligence and their applications in fieldwork, she attained her M.A. and Ph.D. in geography from the University of California, Santa Barbara. While completing her Ph.D., Dr. Meerdink served as a Research Assistant at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena and as a Geospatial Remote Sensing Intern at The Climate Corporation in the San Francisco Bay Area. 

Dr. Meerdink's research is situated at the intersection of machine learning, remote sensing, and ecology to understand our functioning natural environment. Her research focuses on the development of algorithms and methodologies for image processing and translating raw data into manageable and applicable information for future applications. During her time at UC Santa Barbara, Dr. Meerdink investigated plant life and the impact of drought conditions, notably during the 'Thomas Fire,' which ravaged over 281,000 acres in Southern California. Her research can be used as a tool in predictive modeling for wildfires and identifying preventive measures. She is currently working with land managers to identify invasive species in the Everglades National Park to prevent spread, which would reduce biodiversity and degrade Florida coasts. 

Currently, Dr. Meerdink's lab is working to employ imagery to detect harmful algal blooms in Iowa's lakes, including Big Spirit Lake. Through image analysis, her team identifies the onset of algal blooms, which pose risks to both pets and humans. Future plans include collaboration with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to help overcome the enormous challenges faced in having the resources needed to test all the lakes in Iowa. Recent ISA graduate and UI-MARC Trainee Hannah Back was mentored by Dr. Meerdink and conducted research in her lab. 

Reflecting on her academic career path and why she chose to go into academia, Dr. Meerdink expressed a passion for mentoring and teaching students and enjoys watching their growth and helping them discover their interests. When asked what challenges students might have, she acknowledges the financial struggles many students face, often juggling multiple part-time jobs alongside full-time studies. Her advice is to encourage students to differentiate themselves by maintaining an open and curious mindset, asking questions, and applying their research skills to discern their passions. She also emphasizes the importance of crafting visually appealing resumes and compelling cover letters to stand out in today's competitive job market. 

In recognition of her outstanding mentorship, Dr. Meerdink was honored with the ICRU Distinguished Mentor Award from the Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) in March of this year. This student-nominated award celebrates faculty members who contribute significantly to their students' success.

Outside of work, she has a 3 1/2 year-old and an 11-month-old at home. She enjoys learning new things with her children and going to the library and the playground.

It's easy to see why Dr. Meerdink is an effective, appreciated, and respected mentor!