Roberta Beard

I hope to work in the field or in the laboratory. I would like to help with research and learn from those above me. I want to build bridges between the vast arrays of the science field because many corners can benefit from each other. I have an interest in aquaponics, phycology, self sustainability, and climate change. I recently started a limited liability company, Ponics, that I intend to explore my options in making my interests reach the people and do consulting for clients in the field of aquaponics and micro-algae cultivation.

I intend to achieve my Masters degree.

Aquaponics- uses 90% less water than traditional farming. Acre per acre it is more efficient than regular farming. I am fascinated with the nitrogen cycle and the relationship fish, bacteria, and plants all have in helping each other. I made my own at home aquaponics system this year. There is trial and error but I am happy that I have the opportunity to build something myself. Currently I am experimenting with one side of my grow bed being hydroton and the other Styrofoam float mats. I am growing tomatoes, spider plants, and mint.
Phycology- Algae produces 40% of our oxygen yearly. I cultivate Spirulina and other miscellaneous algae. I intend to make a prototype of a windowsill grow tank that will rival other algae cultivation systems that are on the market. The uses for algae are almost endless. Human food, animal feed, bio-fuels, oxygen production, and carbon reduction, are just a few uses for algae. I am more interested in its ability to clean up the air and produce oxygen. As of right now much of my windowsill space is occupied by bottles of different sizes of different types of algae.