Lauren Graniero

She has extensive experience teaching oceanography, geology, and environmental science at the undergraduate level, using innovative, inquiry-based methods to engage students in both face-to-face and hybrid learning environments. Her research interests lie at the intersection of water quality, coastal ecosystems, and climate change. She has published numerous articles on biogeochemistry, paleoclimatology, and environmental change, and is an active participant in university and community service. Dr. Graniero has also been recognized for her commitment to the development of future scientists through both classroom instruction and research supervision.

Education

PhD in Geological Sciences, UNC Chapel Hill; MS in Geology and Geophysics, Texas A&M University; BS in Geology, Union College

Specialization in Teaching

She employs active learning strategies, such as in-class activities, debates, think-pair-share, and project-based learning, to engage students and promote deeper understanding. Her use of metacognitive strategies helps students reflect on their own learning processes, fostering self-efficacy and independent problem-solving skills.

In her field methods and oceanography laboratory courses, she incorporates inquiry-based approaches where students experience hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving.

Research Interests

Though Dr. Graniero works as a paleoclimatologist, her current research focuses on understanding the complex interactions between nutrient sources, ecosystem functions, and water quality in coastal environments. Her work uses stable nitrogen and carbon isotopes to examine nutrient sources, such as runoff from agriculture, stormwater, and wastewater, which contribute to issues like eutrophication and harmful algal blooms. By studying these isotopic signatures, Dr. Graniero seeks to identify the causes of nutrient pollution and its impacts on biogeochemical cycles, particularly in sensitive coastal ecosystems like the Masonboro Island National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Professional Service

Dr. Graniero is the co-chair of the Welcoming and Belonging Committee in the Department of Earth and Ocean Sciences and faculty advisor for the Earth and Ocean Sciences Club at UNCW.

Community Engagement

Dr. Graniero regularly participates in outreach with the NC Coastal Federation through coastal cleanups and educational opportunities.