Elizabeth McNamara earned her BA degree in Geological Sciences with a Minor in Biological Science at California State University Bakersfield (CSUB). As a current graduate student at California State University Bakersfield, she is working on composing her thesis titled "Impact of polarized light produced by a utility-scale solar facility on insect diversity and abundance". Fundamentally, her thesis work addresses the current issue of potential ecological disturbances caused by human encroachment on majorly undisturbed habitats and contributes valuable insight and tools to assist biologists concerned with preservation and conservation. Here is an excerpt from her unpublished abstract:
Polarized light is a well-documented environmental cue used by some insects (e.g., aquatic) to guide them to optimal habitat and oviposition sites. In some cases, the intensity of polarized light pollution surpasses that of naturally polarized light in intensity. In such instances, it is possible that some organisms may be more attracted to polarized light pollution relative to naturally polarized light, creating an ecological trap and having a negative impact on survival and reproduction.
Ms. McNamara discovered her passion for teaching college students while working as a teaching assistant in 2017. It was then she recognized how important it was to have instructors who could relate to their students and offer guidance and motivation as well as instruction. Since 2017, Ms. McNamara has worked as a teaching assistant for several classes at CSUB including Perspectives in Biology, General Ecology, Research and Design Analysis, Introductory Biology - Cells, and Integrated Life Science. When she is not teaching or working on her research, Ms. McNamara works as a biological consultant throughout the San Joaquin Valley and enjoys spending her downtime with her three kids, discovering new foods, and volunteering in the community.