Undergraduate Researcher David Morgan Explores How Trace Elements Affect Leatherback Sea Turtle Eggs

David Morgan’s passion for marine biology has led him to the heart of groundbreaking sea turtle research at the Schmidt College of Science Department of Biological Science’s Marine Science Laboratory (FAU Marine Lab). Now a junior in the Bachelor of Science in Biology program, Morgan is investigating how trace elements—chemical elements present in minute quantities—affect the hatching success of leatherback sea turtle eggs. His project could reveal important clues about environmental health on Florida’s Atlantic coast.  

Morgan selected Florida Atlantic University for its exceptional access to scientific research. The Schmidt College of Science’s highly ranked biology program was also an attractive factor. 

“I chose to do marine science research because being in Florida on the Atlantic coast gives me a unique opportunity to study a marine environment—something not many universities can offer—and I wanted to take full advantage of that,” shared Morgan. 

His work focuses on analyzing eggshells for trace elements, which may have been passed down from mother turtles exposed to environmental pollutants. By understanding this process, Morgan hopes to shed light on the broader impacts of human activity on marine wildlife. 

“This research is relevant because it can provide insight into environmental impacts,” noted Morgan. “If harmful levels of trace elements are found in the eggshells, it may indicate that these elements were transferred from the mother turtle due to environmental exposure.”  

With the help of his mentor Emily Turla, an integrative biology Ph.D. student and FAU Marine Lab coordinator, Morgan is learning important lab techniques and experimental procedures, as well as how to develop his team’s research plan, create timelines and assist with data collection. In addition to his research, Morgan spent last summer at the FAU Marine Lab, assisting with sea turtle husbandry and caring for new hatchlings. 

Morgan’s hard work and dedication are paying off. During his time as an undergraduate, he has made the President’s Honor List three times. Following his anticipated graduation in 2027, Morgan plans to attend medical school to become a physician.