Scientist Laura Murray, Ph.D., joins Charleston Grit

Join us in welcoming our newest contributor to Charleston Grit, Dr. Laura Murray, Ph.D.

We are pleased to have her fill a nature niche here and share her expertise with readers. Read on for her bio and background and check back soon for her first post. 

I grew up in coastal Mississippi, exploring local swamps, rivers and woods. My explorations brought me to love and appreciate the outdoors. In college, I majored in marine science so that I could have a career outside. Receiving a masters degree in science education from the University of West Florida in Pensacola led me to a five year high school biology teaching experience. I then returned to graduate school at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, College of William and Mary in Gloucester Point, Virginia, where I studied wetlands ecology. 

Upon earning my Ph.D., I joined the Biology faculty at Salisbury University. During my 12-year tenure there, I taught several field courses, which allowed me to pursue my passion for nature. In 1993, I joined the faculty of the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Horn Point Laboratory with the dual responsibilities of scientific research and science education. 

As a scientist, my expertise and interests included seagrass and wetland ecology and restoration. As an educator, my primary goal was to link world-class research conducted at our institution with K-12 science education.

Since retiring and moving to the Charleston area, my interests have been in learning about and exploring the nature around us. I started this Notes from Nature blog to share my outdoor experiences with others and to inspire folks to “go outdoors.” I hope you enjoy my trips as much as I do.