Expectations: research is a class, not an extracurricular.

Doing research for academic credit takes the same priority as any other class; this means that research activities take priority over all extracurricular activities, including sports practices, performing arts, etc.

With this in mind, plan to dedicate approximately 10 hours/week to research, just like any class for which you are receiving academic credit. In exchange for your hard work and dedication, you will receive unique, hands-on training in biological research. Past undergraduates that get involved in the lab have had the chance to co-author publications and present honors theses.

We give preference to undergraduates early in their academic career (freshmen-sophomores) who are interested in spending multiple years developing their skills with us. 

What you'll get out of an undergrad research career.

Because our lab conducts research that integrates field, computer, and laboratory techniques, you will have the opportunity to be exposed to a variety of skills that complement the Biology curricula at Brown. The exact work you will be doing may vary from year to year, and depends on which projects we currently need assistance with. Because we have a limited amount of laboratory work available, and a large number of students attempting to learn laboratory skills, know that most first-time undergraduate researchers will be doing computer and field research.

Here are just a few of the skills and experiences you can gain while working with us...

Computer worK: 

Bioacoustic data collection, biomechanical and behavioral video analysis, muscle physiology data manipulation and analysis

Field work:

Identifying birds by sight and sound, safe capture and handling of wildlife, bird banding, behavioral data collection, nest monitoring

LAboratory work:

Quantitative PCR, in situ hybridization, neural tissue histology, PCR and gel eletrophoresis, steroid hormone assays, physiological recordings of muscle performance, EMG, etc. 

Still interested? Here's how to join the lab.

If you’re interested in joining my lab, know that I work on a range of studies that use both laboratory and field methods. I would encourage you to read through some of my past publications to get general a sense of my interests and the nature of my work. Then, please send me an email with your CV or resume, as well as a little information about yourself, such as:

• What aspects of physiology and/or behavior are you interested in studying? What draws you to my lab?

• What are your past research experiences (Note: it is okay if you have no prior research experience. We all have to begin somewhere! Just let me know if this is the case).

• What is your current GPA, and what science classes have you taken previously?

Once you get in touch, we can arrange a time to meet in person and discuss whether our working together is a good fit.