Two Bigelow Laboratory Scientists Receive ASLO Honors

The Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography is an international scientific society founded in 1948. For more than 70 years, it has been the leading professional organization for researchers and educators in the field of aquatic science. This month, two Bigelow Laboratory scientists received prestigious awards from ASLO recognizing their leadership and contributions to research and education, all of which have been invaluable to Bigelow Laboratory, ASLO, and the broader scientific community.

The awards will be presented at the upcoming 2025 Aquatic Sciences Meeting in Charlotte, North Carolina, in March.

ASLO Honors Deborah Bronk with the Tommy and Yvette Edmondson Distinguished Service Award

ASLO presents the Tommy and Yvette Edmondson Distinguished Service Award to members who have displayed exceptional efforts that support the professional goals and enhance the stature of ASLO. The award has been presented to 11 individuals or teams since it was initiated in 1993. This year, ASLO presented the Tommy and Yvette Edmondson Distinguished Service Award to Bigelow Laboratory CEO and President Deborah Bronk for her transformative leadership of the Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography. Bronk’s visionary and strategic stewardship and her unwavering dedication to ASLO have been foundational to the society’s continued excellence and success in supporting diverse aquatic scientists globally.

Bronk served as a Member-at-Large on the ASLO Board of Directors, as well as President-Elect, President, and Past-President of the society (2008-2014). Her many contributions have positively impacted numerous aspects of ASLO’s operations, including the society’s finances, programming, staffing, and strategic vision. Through her presidency of ASLO, Bronk championed the change to the society’s current name, initiated the search for ASLO’s Executive Director, invited a broad community of backgrounds and experiences to participate in the society’s work, and guided ASLO through major changes to its journal portfolio, which included the creation of the highly successful journal Limnology and Oceanography Letters. Bronk continues to make lasting contributions to ASLO and the aquatic sciences, including through service to ASLO meetings.

“Dr. Bronk’s engaged and visionary leadership as ASLO president were foundational to the success and stability that ASLO has enjoyed since her presidency,” said ASLO President Susanne Menden-Deuer. “Dr. Bronk has given tirelessly to ASLO’s mission and fostered a more inclusive scientific community. On behalf of the Board, I express my deep appreciation for her past and continuing service to the organization and advancing the aquatic sciences and scientists.”

ASLO Honors Nicole Poulton with the 2025 Ramón Margalef Award for Excellence in Education Award

ASLO presents the Ramón Margalef Award for Excellence in Education each year to recognize outstanding teaching and mentoring in the fields of limnology and oceanography. The 2025 Margalef Award is being presented to Nicole Poulton, Senior Research Scientist at Bigelow Laboratory and Director of the Center for Aquatic Cytometry, for her exceptional dedication to teaching and education in aquatic sciences for students of all levels, ages, and backgrounds.

Poulton is a leading expert in phytoplankton ecology and a dedicated educator whose impact extends far beyond the institute. Since 2005, she has led the Keller BLOOM Program, which has introduced over 560 high school students to hands-on marine science, inspiring many to pursue careers in STEM. She also co-founded the BLOOM Educators Program, providing over 110 teachers with resources and field training to bring ocean science into classrooms. Additionally, she directs the Intro to Aquatic Flow Cytometry Course, training over 100 students, postdocs, and professionals worldwide.

Poulton has enhanced Bigelow Laboratory’s experiential education and mentorship programs, proving that impactful teaching can thrive outside traditional academic settings. Her contributions extend to the summer Research Experience for Undergraduates program, the Sea Change Semester, and numerous formal and informal mentorships — demonstrating her commitment to nurturing the next generation of aquatic scientists. With passion, dedication, and innovative approaches, she has helped make Bigelow Laboratory a hub for marine science education and mentorship, inspiring students and colleagues alike.

“Through her research, mentorship, education, and research training, Dr. Poulton makes stellar contributions to advancing aquatic science and building the next generation of scholars,” said ASLO President Susanne Menden-Deuer. “Dr. Poulton’s dedication empowers future generations of marine scientists and educators. ASLO is honored to recognize her commitment to fostering scientific literacy, community engagement, and marine education.”