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Katie West

Katie West

Graduate Student (Faculty: Dr. Julia Saltz)

Biosciences

CONTACT

katie.west@rice.edu

WEBSITE(S)| Saltz Lab

SURF Mentoring

Potential projects/topics: This project explores how genetic and environmental factors influence behavior and shape the structure of social networks, using Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies).

Potential skills gained: Students will gain hands-on experience in behavioral coding, data management, data analysis using R, behavioral tracking software, and fly husbandry.

Required qualifications or skills: There are no specific skills or courses required for this project; it is ideal for students with an interest in animal behavior and genetics.

Direct mentor: Graduate Student

Research Areas

Our lab aims to address fundamental questions in evolutionary and behavioral biology by studying genetic variation in the ways that individuals choose, shape and learn about their environments–especially their social environments–and how these processes feed back to influence behavior and fitness.