Creating specialized equipment

In the course of my research I often find myself needing specialized parts that are not readily available. In such situations, I am able to create these specialized parts myself using shop tools including a CNC, laser cutter, mill, 3D printer, chop saw, band saw, and drill press. I am especially adept at making aquatic tanks of different sizes and shapes. With the added use of motors and cameras, I can perform experiments that reduce observers bias by separating the experimenter from the experimental subject in space.

Programming and 3d modeling

I am adept with programming in both R and Matlab. I have used these programs to run models, operate machinery, and do data analyses. I have also used two separate 3D modeling software programs to design specialized equipment needed to complete research projects. Using these 3D modeling programs, AutoDesk Inventor and Google SketchUp, I can virtually create specialized parts, minimizing the use of potentially expensive materials in prototyping.

Video analysis

Because much of my research is focused on locomotion and behavior, I have become adept at analyzing videos. Using ImageJ, Matlab, and homemade code developed by members of the McHenry lab, I can determine the shape, size, position, velocity, acceleration, and rotation of experimental animals in a video. I can use these measurements to gain deeper insight into the subject's behavior and locomotory capabilities.

Animal Husbandry

I have over 5 years of experience in animal husbandry of marine fish and invertebrates and over 3 years experience raising freshwater fish. This included many challenges. For example, I worked to raise Aurelia from the sedentary stage through their medusa phase without the use of a kreisel. I have extensive experience collecting specimens from the field and successfully acclimating them and maintaining them in the lab. I have 1 year of experience raising and maintaining Drosophila.
Recently, I have been learning to raise cricket colonies as well.

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