Eco-Morph-Functional Evolution of Mammal Hearing
Juan Liu, Professor
Integrative Biology
Closed. This professor is continuing with Spring 2024 apprentices on this project; no new apprentices needed for Fall 2024.
Our study aims to explore the intricate details of mammalian hearing, with a specific emphasis on the function and evolution of the middle ear, with comparative anatomy with fish hearing apparatus. This critical aspect of auditory anatomy plays a pivotal role in the way mammals perceive and interpret sound. By delving into the evolutionary history of the middle ear, we seek to uncover how different species have adapted their auditory systems over time and across habitats.
This project aims to explore and discover the anatomical specialization of mammals for hearing capability. Research methods include literature reviewing, dissection, CT scan and image processing, and 3D model development.
Role: Collecting data as instructed including counting and measurements of specimens, assisting in specimen preparation and processing, and helping with photographing and CT image process.
The apprentice will gain experience and training in literature search, morphological and paleontological methods, and 3D data visualization and analysis.
Qualifications: The candidate must be willing to learn and to work in a team. Reliable, organized, and communicative candidates are preferred. After training, the apprentice should be able to perform tasks independently.
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Juan Liu
Hours: to be negotiated
Related website: https://ib.berkeley.edu/labs/liu/
Arts & Humanities Biological & Health Sciences