Environmental Influences on Animal Behavior and Survival

Freshwater Sciences (School of) / Freshwater

Description

The goal of this research is to understand the influences of the environment on animal behavior to help support animal preservation and conservation efforts. An organism’s behavioral range is deeply rooted in its physiology and represents a link between physiology and the environment. Behaviors can be linked to development, biochemistry, and molecular mechanisms—all of which influence behavior. Behavior is not a random process. It is a collection of structured responses that can be predicted and characterized into behavioral models. These behaviors serve the purpose of maximizing fitness and survival of individuals within a population, and ultimately the survival of populations and species. Data collected in this project will be shared with collaborators and used to create computer models and simulations that will be used to assess the risk of stressors to specific animal populations and species.

Tasks and Responsibilities

Students will be performing behavior experiments using zebrafish and analyzing previously collected data from experiments in several fish species. These experiments are designed to identify impacts of environmental stressors (including pollutants) on development of the nervous system. Data analysis utilizes some basic computer programs specifically designed for the analysis of behavior.

Desired Qualifications

We are looking for students with a willingness to learn that are comfortable with a computer. Experience with computer coding is desirable but not required.