This project addresses the lack of low-cost, real-time tools for monitoring aquatic microbial communities by developing a submersible, low-cost microscope. The device uses digital in-line holographic microscopy (DIHM) to capture high-resolution images of microorganisms, offering real-time insights into ecosystem dynamics and enabling the detection of harmful algal blooms (HABs). The system’s low cost allows for deploying multiple units in a spatial grid to monitor microorganism distribution. The goals are to refine the hardware for reliable, multi-day field use, validate its performance for early HAB detection of key cyanobacteria species, and demonstrate its utility through field deployments, providing a scalable method for continuous aquatic microbiome monitoring.

I am participating in SuperUROP to learn how to structure my design process and formalize research into a communicable manner. I’m most excited to apply my skills while gaining a deeper theoretical understanding of digital holography and seeing how the device’s deployment informs future iterations. This project will allow me to contribute to early harmful algal bloom detection efforts while developing a more holistic research perspective.