Brittany Zepernick, a PhD student in the Department of Microbiology, is the latest Graduate Student Spotlight for the Office of Research and Engagement. Her research focuses on harmful algal blooms (HABs), which are masses of phytoplankton, or microscopic algae, that experience unregulated growth. These blooms negatively impact freshwater habitat, with detrimental effects on the ecology and economy of the surrounding areas. Read more about Zepernick and her work at research.utk.edu.