Research Summary: As an undergraduate researcher in the Patel Lab, I work with graduate student Erin Jarvis in her research on the evolution and development of the crustacean Parhyale hawaiensis. My daily tasks in the lab include: microdissections, fluorescent imaging, and immunohistochemical reactions through antibody staining. During the course of my research, my goal is to demonstrate the relationship between Hox genes and appendage diversity in arthropods. I joined the Patel Lab because I am fascinated by embryonic development and body plans of various organisms and the influence of mutations in evolution. Because research in evolution is constantly changing, I am excited to be working in such a fast-paced field. In my free time, I enjoy exploring the Bay Area, reading sci-fi/fantasy novels, learning foreign languages, cooking, hiking, and spending time with my dog, Jupiter.
Education:
University of California, Berkeley
Expected Graduation Date: May 2016
email: jovian.c@berkeley.edu