Lab Members
Bradley B. Tolar, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Biology & Marine Biology
Ph.D., Microbiology, University of Georgia
B.Sc., Microbiology, Louisiana State University
Dr. Tolar (he/him) is a microbiologist trained in oceanography who is interested in how microorganisms interact with and adapt to changes in their environment, whether seasonal or sudden. His research focuses on nitrogen-cycling and other archaea in coastal systems, the open ocean, and floodplains. Outside the lab, you can find him exploring a trail, checking out the local farmer’s market, or reading a book on the beach.
For more information about Bradley, check here.
Parker Lawrence
Ph.D. Student – Integrative, Comparative, & Marine Biology
B.Sc., Biochemistry, Louisiana State University
Parker is currently working along the North Carolina coast, investigating seasoning archaeal population dynamics.
Grace Kennedy
M.Sc. Student – Marine Biology
B.Sc., Biology, George Mason University
Grace is interested in studying marine microbes involved in nutrient cycling. Her upcoming research will focus on archaeal symbionts present in the microbiome of other marine organisms. Outside of the lab, she enjoys spending time with her rabbit, reading, and being in the sunny outdoors.
Grayson Hirtz
Undergraduate Student
B.Sc., Marine Biology (expected 2023)
Grayson is a junior undergraduate student at the University of North Carolina Wilmington studying Marine Biology. She plans to pursue graduate school for Marine Biology and work in marine research after graduating. In her time not dedicated to the lab or school, she can be found watching movies, reading, and taking care of dogs.
Lauren Allie Sells
Undergraduate Student
B.Sc., Marine Biology (expected 2025)
Allie (she/her) is a marine biology student graduating in 2025. She is interested in pursuing a career in environmental ecology. She is hoping to study the effects of microplastic pollution on marine life. Some of her hobbies are making music, and playing with a microscope.
Anthony Woodruff
Undergraduate Student (Honors)
B.Sc., Environmental Science (Biology Conc.), Minor In Journalism (expected Fall 2023)
Anthony is a senior at UNCW studying environmental science, from Charlotte, NC. He is very interested in learning about the natural world and how to preserve it. He has completed internships and volunteer projects in America and Costa Rica dealing with the conservation of animals and is now turning his attention to researching microorganisms that are integral to the health of aquatic ecosystems. He is currently working on an honors thesis project investigating the distribution of archaea in the Cape Fear Watershed area and their responses to pollution and other anthropogenic effects. He hopes to pursue a career in environmental research or non-profit outreach. He is strongly considering attending graduate school to receive a degree in the sciences.
Coming soon!
Future lab member
Coming soon!
Future lab member
Tolar Lab @ UNCW 