Jocelynn Johnson
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, Manitoba, CANADA
Dear Members of the Smithsonian Women's Committee,
It is with my humble appreciation that I thank you for the endowment that has supported my research this summer at the National Museum of Natural History. Without your generosity, I would not have had the privilege to take part in this wonderful program.
This endowment enabled me to complete a research project on the degree of biological preservation within petrified woods, on the basis of the mineralizing agents. While this project was initially outside my scope of expertise, it expanded my understanding of mineralogy and paleontology. The diversity of my project on petrified woods has allowed me to practice several cutting-edge instruments and techniques in geological research. In preparation for this project, I have also expanded my comprehension of botany as well.
While this venture was not without its unique challenges and frustrations, ultimately it has taught me to deal with unexpected setbacks and failures with optimism and humour, which I believe will make me a better scientist. My advisor, Dr. Ed Vicenzi, was a great source of support and knowledge during the project. Dr. Vicenzi and I are so pleased with the results of my research that we plan to present the results to the NASA Astrobiology Conference in the Spring of 2004. This would not have been possible without your generous assistance.
Working on my research project was not the only enjoyable and educational aspect of my time at the museum. The Research Training Program curriculum allowed me the unique opportunity of appreciating the diverse research collections of the National Museum of Natural History. Seeing the geology collections was an amazing experience that served to motivate my interest in my field. I also enjoyed the collection tours of the other departments as well. This was one of the most educational experiences that I have had the privilege to be part of.
I cannot thank you enough for your kind support that enabled me to take part in this truly amazing program.
Sincerely,
Jocelynn Johnson
Research Training Program, 2003
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