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As of May 2002, I am participating in undergraduate research as part of an REU supplement to Dr. Fautin's P.E.E.T. grant. My role in this research is twofold. First, I am adding the order Antipatharia to our ever-growing database. Commonly known as the "black coral," this order encompasses over 200 described species. With a worldwide distribution, these Hexacorals are commonly found at depths much greater than their counterparts of the coastal reefs. Secondly, I am compiling data on nematocyst structures, and incorporating this into our database as well. It is hoped that this information may prove valuable to the taxonomic and biological communities alike. As a secondary role in the lab, I play the part of student hourly. This title can be interpreted in a number of ways. I like to think of it as being equivalent to a "lab lieutenancy," one in which I hold a great deal of power over others in the lab. Unfortunately, I instead find myself tending to respond to "Hey you, with the bologna sandwich, I need you to make copies for me!" Recent Presentations
2003 University of Kansas Sigma Xi Paper Competition |