Brittney Mitchell

Brittney earned her B.S. in Marine Biology and B.A. in Chemistry with a minor in Astronomy-Physics from Humboldt State University. As an undergraduate, she conducted research studying climate change impacts on urchin-macroalgae feeding relationships, copper pollution impacts on bryozoan larval settlement, and metal bioaccumulation in macroalgae. In her doctoral studies at Duke, Brittney’s research employs interdisciplinary approaches to investigate toxicological impacts of novel materials and biocides on organisms including barnacles and zebrafish. In the Rittschof lab, Brittney is investigating how materials impact barnacle physiology and morphology, the genetic basis for barnacle adhesive failure, and the dynamic microenvironment at the barnacle-substrate interface. Ultimately, she hopes her research will contribute to the development of environmentally responsible antifouling management solutions that help satisfy the needs of marine activities while conserving marine habitats. When not in the lab, Brittney enjoys painting, wood burning, kayaking, and wildlife/astrophotography.