The conference was a world-wide gathering of over 180 scientists from 28 countries.
Sewell was selected as one of 65 presenters for the conference. Her presentation entitled "Metabolic rates of an aquatic tardigrade, Dactlylobiotus cf. parthenogeneticus" explained the variation of oxygen consumption among active animals, encysted animals and individual eggs at different temperatures.
Tardigrades, also referred to as Water Bears, are microscopic invertebrates that must be surrounded by water to be active.
"There have been very few studies on metabolic rates of aquatic tardigrades," she said. "As far as I know, mine is the first to ever measure the metabolic rate of a single tardigrade egg."
The Cherokee County native said that being able to travel world-wide to explain her research has been a humbling experience, and being able to learn from seasoned scientists across the globe allows her to bring the best techniques and her experiences back to her students at Gadsden State.
For Sewell, presenting her research at an international conference shows her students that they are not limited by what they may perceive as regional or cultural obstacles.
"I grew up in Cherokee County, attended what most consider a local university, and still reside and work locally," said Sewell. "I may be what most people would consider a 'small-town girl' but I still manage to contribute on an international level. Through this example my students will learn to strive to contribute, as well."
Sewell began her research of tardigrades in May 2007 while studying for her master's degree in science at Jacksonville State University. She previously presented her findings on a population survey at the 11th International Tardigrade Symposium in Tubingen, Germany, last year and is currently awaiting publication on two articles based on her extensive tardigrade research.
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