Studying Gene Expression During Breath-Holds in Elephant Seals
Jose Pablo Vazquez-Medina, Professor
Integrative Biology
Applications for Fall 2025 are closed for this project.
Elephant seals are expert divers that can hold their breath for long periods without sustaining any injuries, even in low-oxygen conditions. Unlike humans, they avoid the harmful effects of reduced blood flow and reoxygenation by using strong antioxidant defenses. This project will explore how their genes change during natural breath-holds (apneas) to better understand how their bodies protect against oxidative stress. These findings could reveal unique adaptations that help them tolerate repeated low-oxygen conditions.
Role: Role: Students will be trained in various molecular techniques including RNA extractions and RT-qPCR using blood samples collected from elephant seals during apneas. Students will learn data analysis techniques to track changes in gene express
Qualifications: Basic knowledge of lab safety and chemistry. Familiarity with computers and word processing. Lab or data analysis experience is helpful but not required.
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Elizabeth Piotrowski, PhD candidate
Hours: to be negotiated
Related website: https://www.vazquezmedinalab.com/
Biological & Health Sciences