Undergraduate research
In the Metz Lab, undergrads drive discovery. Here are some current projects and the students behind them!
Gina Sailor ’28
Life cycles of deadly decomposers
Using a combination of time-lapse videography and detailed microscopic observation, Gina is documenting each life stage of two closely related species of “deadly decomposer”. This is foundational work that will help launch these tiny organisms as a model system for understanding the ecology of things that can act as both parasites and decomposers.
Mel Mitsyuk ’27
Local risk of Lyme disease
Mel is currently working to assess the prevalence of Borrelia infection in Lancaster-local black-legged ticks using molecular barcoding. While super interesting information in itself, these results will be used to build a mathematical model of Lyme disease that incorporates habitat type, host immune state, and host movements to better understand how the risk of Lyme varies year-to-year.
YOU??
Very cool research
Undergrads drive innovation in the Metz Lab. I don’t currently have any positions open, but check back as the new semester approaches… opportunities await!