Our lab uses insects as models for basic physiological processes in human diseases. One current project explores how flies regulate blood sugar and fat loads in response to seasonal cycles. Flies enter a hibernation-like state during the winter; and like hibernating grizzly bears, over wintering flies accumulate greater fat stores than summer flies. We are studying the roles of two important endocrine signaling pathways in this process, insulin (yes, flies have an insulin signaling system!) and the glucagon-like adipokinetic hormone in this process.

Requirements: Student must be willing to work hard and learn new things. No experience necessary, but prior coursework in biology and chemistry a plus.

Time Commitment:

How important is size? Our lab combines techniques from a number of fields including ecology, evolutionary biology, physiology and biochemistry to determine how traits such as body size and nutritional status affect survival and reproduction in insects. Training could include a number of techniques including behavior, field collections, artificial selection, respirometry, molecular genetics/proteomics and analytical biochemistry.

Requirements: Student must be willing to work hard and learn new things. No experience necessary, but prior coursework in biology and chemistry a plus.

Time Commitment:

Our lab uses insects as models for basic physiological processes in human diseases. One current project explores how flies regulate blood sugar and fat loads in response to seasonal cycles. Flies enter a hibernation-like state during the winter; and like hibernating grizzly bears, over wintering flies accumulate greater fat stores than summer flies. We are studying the roles of two important endocrine signaling pathways in this process, insulin (yes, flies have an insulin signaling system!) and the glucagon-like adipokinetic hormone in this process.

Requirements: Student must be willing to work hard and learn new things. No experience necessary, but prior coursework in biology and chemistry a plus.

Time Commitment: