UTPA REU mentors and their research
Click on a name to be taken to a more detailed description of each professor's research.
- Hudson DeYoe: Aquatic ecology
- Mohammed Farooqui: Environmental toxicology
- Zen Faulkes: Brains, behavior and evolution
- Paty Feria: Landscape ecology
- Brian Fredensborg: Parasitology
- Jonathan Lieman: Cell biology
- Kristine Lowe: Bacterial ecology and physiology
- Andrew McDonald: Plant systematics
- Mike Persans: Plant biochemistry and molecular biology
- Matt Terry: Developmental biology and evolution
- Chris Vitek: Entomology, particularly mosquitoes
- Fred Zaidan III: Ecological physiology and herpetology
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Hudson DeYoe
Email: hdeyoe@utpa.edu
Office: SCIE 1.324
Phone: (956) 381-3538
The big question in my lab: One goal of my research is to understand the impact of human activities on the aquatic environment (includes salt as well as freshwater). To detect these effects, you have to know what the normal condition is so I and my students spend considerable time and effort monitoring different environments looking for differences. I key on changes in water and sediment quality and effects on aquatic photosynthetic organisms like algae and seagrass since these are typically the base of aquatic food webs.
To succeed in research, you need: Above all, to be interested!!! The most successful students in my lab ask meaningful questions. This tells me that they understand what they are doing and are interested in it!
What I'm looking for in a research student is: Since a lot of my research has a field component, you need to like water and mud or are at least not afraid to get dirty and/or wet. Reliability is big with me. I like students that follow through. Lastly, in the lab or the field, I appreciate people that have a good perspective on life, which usually means having a good sense of humor (that does not mean you have to be funny but just like to laugh).
Click here for sample paper: Kowalski JL, DeYoe HR, Allison TC, Kaldy JE. 2001. Productivity estimation in Halodule wrightii: comparison of leaf-clipping and leaf-marking techniques, and the importance of clip height. Marine Ecology Progress Series 220: 131-136.
Mohammed Farooqui
Email: farooqui@utpa.edu
Office: SCIE 2.360
Phone: (956) 381-3543
The big question in my lab: In general my interest focuses on various toxic aspects of environmental and industrial chemicals on human systems. In more specific terms, I am interested in molecular interactions and metabolism of these chemicals and trying to understand their mechanisms of actions through the studies on various organ systems in laboratory animals. Then, to look at the threat, if any, to humans.
To succeed in research, you need: Dedication and perseverance. Students need to know what research is all about. They should be able to identify a gap in knowledge in areas where they wish to explore.
What I'm looking for in a research student is: Interest and dedication in research. They need to understand that what they will be involved in is time consuming.
Click here for abstract of sample paper: Farooqui MYH, Ybarra B, Piper J, Tamez A. 1995. Effect of dosing vehicle on the toxicity and metaboilsm of unsaturated aliphatic nitriles. Journal of Applied Toxicology 15: 411-420.
Zen Faulkes
Email: zfaulkes@utpa.edu
Office: SCIE 2.364
Phone: (956) 381-2614
The big question in my lab: How does behavior evolve? And how do nervous systems change as behaviors are gained or lost over evolutionary time? (There are many other questions that are tackled in my lab, but that's the stuff that interests me the most.) I'm also working to establish Marmorkrebs, a parthenogentic crayfish, as a model organism for biology.
To succeed in research, you need: Persistance. Research by definition means you're doing something new, so there are times you'll try something and it just will not work. Obviously, there are many times when things do work, and those are great, but you shouldn't a person who is easily discouraged.
What I'm looking for in research students is: People who are not afraid to work on their own, and who are not afraid to ask for help when they need it. And, cheesy as it sounds, people who are passionate.
Click here for sample paper: Faulkes Z. 2004. Loss of escape responses and giant neurons in the tailflipping circuits of slipper lobsters, Ibacus spp. (Decapoda, Palinura, Scyllaridae). Arthropod Structure & Development 33(2): 113-123.
Paty Feria
Email: tpferia@utpa.edu
Office: SCIE 2.328
Phone: (956) 292-7322
The big question in my lab: What factors (climatic and topographic) determine the distribution of species?
My current research interests focus on Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Species Distribution Modeling (SDM) methods applied to plant/animal distributions both current and future (under climatic changes), conservation biology and invasive species management. For example, a current challenge in conservation is using our rather sparse knowledge regarding the distribution of plants and animals in an effective way to set priorities at a scale most appropriate for conservation action; SDM offers opportunities to deal with these issues.
To succeed in research, you need: To enjoy what you are doing and not be afraid of failing. When you enjoy you learn and are able to keep working. You will also need to maintain or develop a strong commitment toward doing a good job. The world is facing difficult challenges (biodiversity lost, climatic change, spread of invasive species), and we must contribute in some way to solving these problems.
What I'm looking for in research students is: Enthusiasm!!! ... Desire to learn and contribute to science and the understanding of nature. Initiative to work hard and passion for work in the outdoors. Desire to travel and meet new people.
Click here for sample paper: Solano E, Feria ATP. 2007. Ecological niche modeling and geographic distribution of the genus Polianthes L. (Agavaceae) in Mexico: using niche modeling to improve assessments of risk status. Biodiversity and Conservation 16: 1885-1900.
doi: 10.1007/s10531-006-9091-0
Brian Fredensborg
The big question in my lab: I am broadly interested in how parasites affect aquatic ecosystems through effects on host survival, reproduction and behavior. More recently I have been interested in how parasites and their hosts interact in environments affected by human influence. For example, what is the effect of parasitism on hosts in relation to pollution, species invasions and habitat degradation.
To succeed in research, you need: Enthusiasm about learning new things. If you are open-minded and want to make an effort you will find an area of interest to you.
What I'm looking for in research students is: That you are interested and willing to put in the time it takes to conduct your experiments/studies. That you are interested in taking an active part in developing your research questions. There will be plenty of opportunities for field work, and you should be willing to get your hands dirty.
Click here for sample paper: Fredensborg BL, Poulin R. 2006. Parasitism shaping host life-history evolution: adaptive responses in a marine gastropod to infection by trematodes. Journal of Animal Ecology 75: 44-53.
Jonathan Lieman
Email: jlieman@utpa.edu
Office: SCIE 1.364
Phone: (956) 381 3656
The big question in my lab: What is the molecular basis behind tumorgenesis, and how do cells protect against this? Most tumors have developed mutations in the Rb/E2F pathway which controls cell cycle progression; to guard against this, cells can eliminate themselves through programmed cell death (apoptosis). This checkpoint, which guards against cancer, is being studied to determine what proteins are involved.
To succeed in research, you need: Dedication, patience, and persistence. You need to learn as much as you can about the area you are studying and start to ask questions. Research at times is a lesson in problem solving, and the more you know the better equipped you are.
What I'm looking for in a research student is: A student who has a naturally inquisitive. Someone with patience and dedication, and is not afraid to ask questions.
Click here for sample paper: Lieman JL, Worley LA, Harbour JW. 2005. Loss of Rb-E2F repression results in caspase-8-mediated apoptosis through inactivation of focal adhesion kinase. Journal of Biological Chemistry 280(11): 10484-10490.
Kristine Lowe
Email: klowe@utpa.edu
Office: SCIE 2.332
Phone: (956) 380-8749
The big question in my lab: What types of microbial communities are present in nature and how do they interact with chemicals in the environment? Natural and man-made chemicals are heavily influenced by bacteria and fungi in the environment. These microorganisms decompose organic matter, oxidize and reduce inorganic compounds, provide nutrients to other organisms and detoxify pollutants. Students in my lab isolate and characterize microbial communities found in nature that are important in the cycling of chemicals. This is an area within the discipline of Microbial Ecology called Geomicrobiology.
To succeed in research, you need: Good organizational skills and enthusiasm. Students have many misconceptions about what research is and how it works. Many students think that you have to be a genius in order to conduct scientific research, that research is either really hard or that research is really boring. It surprises students to learn that hard work and enthusiasm are much more important to be successful and that research is actually fun.
What I'm looking for in a research student is: Someone who is curious about how nature works, isn't afraid to get a little dirty, isn't afraid to try new things, and can keep good notes of their experiments.
Click here for sample paper: Lowe KL, Fliflet RE, Ly T, Little BJ, Jones-Meehan J. 2002. Chromium tolerant microbial communities from the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Virginia Journal of Science 53(3): 141-155.
Andrew McDonald
Email: amcdonald@utpa.edu
Office: SCIE 3.114
Phone: (956) 381-2065
The big question in my lab: How can one apply systematic data and methods to advance the cause of conserving biological diversity?
To succeed in research, you need: Enthusiasm for a subject matter, due diligence, scientific integrity, and patience (roughly in that order).
What I'm looking for in a research student is: Enthusiasm for the subject matter, due diligence, scientific integrity, and patience (roughly in that order).
Click here for sample paper: McDonald JA. 2002. Botanical determination of the Middle Eastern tree of life. Economic Botany 56(2): 113-129.
Mike Persans
Email: mpersans@utpa.edu
Office: SCIE 2.324
Phone: (956) 292-7323
The big question in my lab: The main questions my research involve isolation and characterization of genes involved in heavy metal tolerance in plants, the metabolism of herbicides by plants, the use of plants as bio-indicators of environmental stress and the use of remote sensing to monitor environmental pollution caused by heavy metals using plants as a model indicator organism.
To succeed in research, you need: To realize research happens 24/7/365 (24/7/366 during leap years). While the main advantage for working on research projects is the flexibility in the schedule, however, a daily sustained effort is needed to complete research projects. Therefore, a fundamental understanding of the research process, enthusiasm to work on the project, and the ability to seriously vest yourself into doing what it takes to accomplish research tasks and goals in a timely manner are important.
What I'm looking for in a research student is: To be on time and show up to the lab ready to work. Once trained and assigned a research project, to be able to plan their own research schedule and complete assigned research tasks in a timely manner. Be dedicated to the research project and show enthusiasm for learning new things. To evolve into an independent student researcher who can critically plan and think about their research project. A student should think about the research experience as more than just a temporary job, they should be serious and view the pursuit of research science as a viable career path.
Click here for sample paper: Persans M, Nieman K, Salt DE. 2001. Functional activity and role of cation-efflux family members in Ni hyperaccumulation in Thlaspi goesingense. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 98(17): 9995-10000.
Matt Terry
Email: mterry1@utpa.edu
Office: SCIE 3.110
Phone: (956) 381-2064
The big question in my lab: My research focuses on the evolution and diversification of arthropods, primarily insects, using genetic and developmental approaches. This research combines elements of Evo/Devo, phylogenetics, embryology, evolution and molecular biology. Undergraduates and graduate students working in my lab will gain experience and need to become proficient in a number of methodologies including PCR, gene cloning, isolating and working with RNA, in-situ hybridizations, antibody staining and RNA interference. Also, various projects include elements of genomics and phylogenetic and evolutionary theory. Ongoing projects involve investigations of insect appendages (wing, leg and abdominal appendages) using phylogenetically critical groups of insects that are typically overlooked by research focused on model organisms. This approach presents a distinct set of challenges, but also allows us to focus on organisms that represent select lineages that minimally span key evolutionary events. This allows us to address particular questions that cannot be answered using a less diverse approach.
To succeed in research, you need: To succeed as a research assistant in my lab you don't need any prior technical training, however you do need a background in basic biological processes and the ability to see how those processes are interconnected. Most lab work is very simple and straight forward, almost like following a recipe from a cookbook, however it takes a great deal of knowledge and understanding of the fundamental processes of biology to see the big picture and know what to do when the "recipe" doesn't work as planned. Students in my lab learn the fundamental techniques necessary to succeed, but more importantly I hope you will learn how to think like a scientist and take an active role in the research experience.
What I'm looking for in a research student is: There are two important qualities I look for in a research student, whether at the undergraduate or graduate level. First, a student must have an eye for detail and a willingness to be meticulous in both method and documentation of those methods. And second, a student needs to be willing to ask questions, no matter how dumb you may think they are. It is much easier to handle an issue during research early rather than trying to fix a mistake made because you were afraid to ask. Laboratory research is a challenging, sometimes frustrating endeavor, but above all it is an opportunity to learn and expand your understanding of how the world around you works.
Click here for sample paper: Terry MD, Whiting MF. 2005. Mantophasmatodea and phylogeny of the lower neopterous insects. Cladistics 21: 240-257.
Chris Vitek
Email: vitekc@utpa.edu
Office: SCIE 2.324
Phone: (956) 381-2845
The big question in my lab: How does environment influence mosquito biology and behavior, and how can changes in biology and behavior influence disease transmission? We examine mosquito responses to environmental change, and can also use mosquitoes as model organisms to address larger questions about biology and ecology. The dual nature of the mosquito life cycle (with a terrestrial and aquatic life stage) allows for many different avenues of research.
To succeed in research, you need: Dedication, curiosity, and persistence. You need to be dedicated to the research, to understand the time and effort you need to put in to be successful. You need a curiosity and interest about biology and life, to ask the questions that interest you and a desire to try to find the answers. And you need persistence, because sometimes those answers may not come easily or quickly.
What I'm looking for in a research student is: Someone who wants to learn, who wants to be actively engaged in research, and who can take the initiative in their research. In my lab, research is a joint process. I expect you to learn from me, but I also want you to bring your own interests, talents, and skills to my lab. Research is both lab and field oriented, so we can design experiments that will be of interest to you.
Click here for sample paper: Vitek CJ, Richards SL, Mores CN, Day JF, Lord CC. 2008. Arbovirus Transmission by Culex nigripalpus in Florida, 2005. Journal of Medical Entomology 45(3): 483-493.
Fred Zaidan III
Email: fzaidan@utpa.edu
Office: SCIE 2.312
Phone: (956) 292-7481
The big question in my lab: How do environmental conditions affect animal energetics and hormones and how do these determine the distribution of the animals? I am particularly interested in the mechanisms that establish geographic range limits under nonlethal conditions, geographic variation in physiological traits, brumation/hibernation ecology, and reproductive/osmoregulatory physiology. The research in my lab is broadly divided into two working groups: physiological ecology and ecology/behavior. My main study organisms are snakes, particularly those in the genera Agkistrodon (cottonmouths, cantils, copperheads), Crotalus/Sistrurus (rattlesnakes), and Nerodia (water snakes). I also have interests in other reptiles, amphibians, and several invertebrate groups (arachnids, cockroaches, and slugs).
To succeed in research, you need: Patience, interest, effort, and desire.
What I'm looking for in a research student is: Positive attitude, impeccable work ethic, honor, a love for the project, and good old fashioned common sense. The ability to cope safely with the unpleasantness of the outdoors and animals that bite or sting is a plus!
Click here for sample paper: Zaidan III F. 2003. Variation in cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus leucostoma) resting metabolic rates. Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology - Part A: Molecular & Integrative Physiology 134(3): 511-523.
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