Faculty Advisor: Graduate Research Assistant, Shark Lab, California State University, Long Beach

Research Practicum Introduction

Have you ever wondered what makes sharks and rays such formidable and fascinating creatures of the ocean?

This Research Practicum invites students to explore the ancient, enigmatic world of elasmobranchs, a species that evolved long before even the first trees appeared on Earth, carrying with them unique adaptations like cartilaginous skeletons that have enabled their survival across millions of years. This program offers an introduction to their evolutionary history, anatomy, physiology, movement, and vital ecological roles.

We will also examine how human activities intersect with the lives of these incredible animals—whether through fishing, ecotourism, or keeping sharks and rays in aquaria. Throughout the program, students will develop practical skills in academic research, scientific writing, and public presentation, ultimately culminating in a research-driven paper or proposal that essentially facilitates students’ self-exploration and informed decision-making.

Standards of Assessment

Students begin with an early assignment where they will select an elasmobranch species of interest and give a 5-minute presentation about that species. Weekly assignments will include reading or researching relevant research, with annotations and short summaries for class discussions.

Eventually, students will focus on developing a final research paper (3-5 pages), including selecting a suitable topic within elasmobranch science. The paper will undergo a peer-review process, where students will exchange drafts with their peers and provide constructive feedback through detailed comments.

Possible Topics For Final Project

• What are the long-range migration patterns of eagle rays?

• How did unique head shapes evolve in hammerhead sharks, and what advantages do they provide?

• What are the conservation challenges faced by artisanal fisheries targeting endangered guitarfish?

• How do coastal shark species move and how can we effectively track them?

• What impact does ecotourism have on shark behavior, and why is it significant?

• What are the reproductive biology and breeding patterns of rays, and how do they influence population stability?

• Or other topics that are relevant to this program and that your Faculty Advisor agrees after discussion with you.

Program Detail

• Cohort Size: This cohort is limited to 5-10 students

• Workload: Around 3 hours per week (including class time and homework time)

• Target Students: This program is intended for Middle school students (Grades 7-9) eager to explore the wonders of marine biology, ecology, and environmental science. It is an excellent opportunity for those considering a future in marine research or environmental studies.