Autumn 2012 - UW Biology - University of Washington

Guess the Mystery Flower!
Important Dates
for Autumn Quarter
Sep 24
Instruction Begins
Sep 25
Yom Kippur
Sept 30
LAST DAY to drop a class without a fee thru MyUW
Oct 1
All courses require entry codes to add, beginning
Oct 3
Biology Apparel Day
Oct 5
Network for Shy People
(& Everyone Else) MGH 134
Oct 7
LAST DAY to drop a class without the use of the ANNUAL DROP
Oct 12
Neurobiology App deadline
Oct 14
LAST DAY to add a class through MyUW
Oct 15
Career Fair Sucess
MGH 134
Oct 17
Study Abroad Fair
MGHCommons
Oct 24
Career Fair Sucess
MGH 134
Oct 29
Registration Deadline
for Voting
Oct 31
Halloween
Nov2-25 Winter Reg Period 1: Priority
Nov 6
Election Day - go vote!
Nov 7
Biology Apparel Day
Nov 12
Veterans Day Observed
Nov 22-23
Thanksgiving Holiday
Nov26-Jan6 Winter Reg Period 2
Dec 7
Biology Apparel Day
Dec 7
LAST DAY to Withdraw
(from all classes)
Dec 7
LAST DAY of Instruction
Dec10-14
Winter Final Exam Week
Dec17- Jan4 Holiday Break
Autumn Quarter 2012
Version 14
Dr Toby Bradshaw
Chair of Biology
Welcome back to UW Biology!
I hope that you all had an enjoyable and productive
summer.
After several years of budget austerity at the UW,
things are finally looking up. Biology is excited to be
able to offer several new courses this year, particularly
geared towards students in the pre-health sciences.
Biomedical Advances and Society (BIOL 380) and
Physiological Mechanisms of Histology (BIOL 403)
Dr. Toby Bradshaw
Chair of the Biology department are now in the course catalog http://www.washington.
edu/students/crscat/biology.html. In addition, we will offer Comparative
Anatomy of Vertebrates (BIOL 453) more often, and offer larger sections of the
Introductory Biology series (BIOL 180, 200, 220) in quarters of peak demand.
Please drop by the Academic Services Office (Hitchcock 318) to plan your
academic year!
Your academic experience at the UW goes far beyond the classroom. When
meeting with Biology’s advising team, be sure to ask them about undergraduate
research, Friday Harbor Lab courses and apprenticeships, Exploration Seminars,
and study abroad. These opportunities for personal and professional growth
should not be missed.
Bests wishes for a successful 2012-13!
Atrium Plant
Dioscorea sansibarensis
Well you are looking at Dioscorea sansibarensis,
its common name Zanzibar Yam, native to tropical
Africa and recently has been reported growing in
Miami-Dade county in southern Florida.
The plants are tuberous, notice the stems twine
counter - clockwise and will climb 7 meters (21’)
up to 25 meters (75’). Leaves alternate at basal
nodes. It propagates vegetatively through the
production of aerial bulbils that fall to the ground.
It is an ornamental plant cultivated for its large,
unusual shaped leaves and is not edible. If left
unchecked, this fast -growing climber spirals up
tall trees and completely smothers the canopy
with its foliage.Then it showers the ground
Dioscorea sansibarensis
with thousands of aerial bulbils and once it has
established in an area, the forest has little chance of recovery without human
intervention. Especially since the bulbils do not stay dormant for long, and will
germinate in a matter of weeks.
Study Abroad
Costa Rica CIEE Monetverde Tropical Ecology
The Monteverde TEC Program is designed
for Biology majors who are keen to enroll
in tropical diversity, independent research,
tropical community ecology, humans in the
tropics, and Spanish language courses. The
Program is unique in that it included two
extended field trips: one along the Pacific
coast and another along the Caribbean
coast ending in Bocas del Toro, Panamá.
We were ecological
nomads—busing
or hiking to and
camping at various
field stations
no matter how
well-populated
or remote. Extra
rooms at various field stations, farms,
tree fall gaps, and beaches became our
classrooms. We learned the scientific
names and natural histories of many
plant and animal species we came in
direct contact with, visited mangroves,
snorkeled, saw humpback whales,
witnessed leatherback sea turtles nesting,
hiked through primary and secondary
forests, explored a bat cave, chatted with
farmers and plantation owners, climbed up
through a fig tree to canopy level, and so
much more. The lush beauty of old growth
forests was enthralling—not only because
of what creatures they harbored, but also
because of the sheer size of the trees and
the extensity of the vines and lianas. The
forests are a hub of activity where old life is
critical in making new life.
Vera Hoang , Senior: General Biology and
CEP(community, environment & planning)
Having grown up in a close-knit family with
limited travel experience, I made a priority
of studying abroad.
When not traversing the different Costa
Rican ecosystems through our extended
fieldtrips, our base was the Monteverde
Biological Station, or, as the locals called
it, “la Estación”. The Station is located
right in the middle of the cloud forest and
is equipped with a classroom, library, lab,
and cafeteria. When in desperate need for a
walk or study break, the forest was literally
10 feet away from my dorm room.
The staff was fantastic. The resident
director and professor is an American
native who is surrounded by Costa Rican
professors and T.A.s. It was amazing to have such an
extensive wealth of knowledge on hand and in such a small
group of people. The students and staff quickly established
an agreement of mutually abusive camaraderie which only
made me love the program more. Life was never dull.
Vera climbing up a fig tree.
Considering my interests in Biology and Spanish language,
the CIEE Monteverde Tropical Ecology and Conservation
(TEC) Program was a perfect fit.
2
Tree Boa
Bat species report
Getting ready to zipline
family was very patient with my broken Spanish. My host
mom even brought me to the local farmer’s market where
one of the farmers said that I was “casi Tica” or almost Costa
Rican! Ticos are very friendly and welcoming. From my host
family, I learned that I don’t need much to be happy.
Monteverde TEC has caused me to view the world
differently. It gave me a no-holds-barred perspective of
conservation in Costa Rica and the tropics. I’m so lucky and
humbled to have participated in this program. I definitely
recommend this program to those with a healthy appetite,
an interest in Biology, and a love for the outdoors. I hope
to return to Costa Rica one day to relive the sights, visit my
host mom, as well as to fulfill one of my goals of becoming
a sea turtle egg relocation volunteer. Monteverde TEC was
only the beginning!
Huge Araceae
Another great aspect of the TEC Program was our onemonth homestay during which we also investigated an
independent research question by creating our own
experiment. I learned so much from my host family. Waking
up and returning home to speaking Spanish was a source of
pleasure for me; I loved being able to practice and my host
Study Abroad Fair @ MGH
October 17, 10 am -2:00 pm
The UW Study Abroad Office is hosting our 12th annual Study Abroad Fair on Wednesday, October 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
in Mary Gates Hall Commons. More than 40 exhibitors representing a wide array of international programs and internships
will be available to speak with students about opportunities in international education. Infact, they have over 600 international educational opportunities in more than 70 countries around the world!! We hope that you will have an opportunity to
stop by the fair to learn more about our affiliated study abroad options. See your Biology Advisor to see how Study Abroad
might work in your degree!
3
CCB Study
Detection dogs find the elusive Mt. Jemez Salamander
Center for Conser vation Biology UW
We develop and apply comprehensive tools to
cost-effectively gather vast amounts of genetic,
physiological and ecological data over very
large landscapes, along with creative ways of
integrating and analyzing this information.
These monitoring programs focus on a wide
variety of species and frequently take advantage
of our detection dog program, Conservation
Canines.
Check out this incredible photo of Frehley, one
of our detection dogs, locating the
Mt. Jemez salamander in New Mexico.
This is a study we are doing with U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service and The Nature Conservancy
to determine species occupancy.
The feds are considering listing it, but have had
difficulty locating it during the short time it is
above ground. Problem solved!
Samuel Wasser
Endowed Chair in Conservation Biology
Director, Center for Conservation Biology
Research Professor, Department of Biology
Box 351800 UW, Seattle, WA 98195-1800
Ph: 206-543-1669; Cell: 206-853-4730
[email protected]
http://conservationbiology.net/
Go Vote
Nov 6: President, Governor, state senator and much more
Voting is one of the most important rights we have as citizens.
However, in order to vote and voice your opinion, you must first register to vote with the state in which you currently reside.
The rules and requirements of each state vary, so the first thing you need to do is read about your state’s particular laws.
To register to vote in the state of Washington, you must be:
•
•
•
•
•
A citizen of the United States
A legal resident of Washington state
At least 18 years old by election day
Not under the authority of the Department of Corrections
Not disqualified from voting due to a court order
In the state of Washington, you do not have to register by political party or declare
political party membership to vote in the state’s regular primaries or general elections.
Registration Deadline in Washington state for the Nov 6 election: 30 days before
the election or by October 8 (or delivered in-person to the local voter registration
office 8 days before the election or by October 29)
You can register online, 24 hours a day by visiting the Washington State Secretary of State’s website:
https://wei.sos.wa.gov/agency/osos/en/Pages/myvote.aspx
Your Washington State mail-in ballot must be postmarked by November 6, Primary Election Day. It requires a first class
postage stamp and must be signed.
4
403,360 & 466
Exciting new courses for Biology Majors!
BIOL 403 Physiological Mechanisms of Histology Winter 13 (5)
Lecture M-W-F 9:30-10:20 / Lab A: T & Th 10:30-12:20 / Lab B: T & Th 1:30-3:20
What cell is this? What does its anatomy tell us about its function? How will it look if its
function changes? Tissues will tell you all of their secrets, if you know how to look at
them. We will learn to identify and describe normal and abnormal animal cells and
tissues from their microscopic appearance. Students will prepare tissues and make
sections, which they can keep; and give a presentation on their project. Plant projects
are welcome, too! This is a great opportunity to understand life at its most intimate
level, to graduate with real-world job skills, or to prepare for a career in research or
health sciences.
Monkey salivary gland
BIOL 360 Introduction to Cellular Anatomy Spring 13 (4)
Lecture M-W-F 9:30-10:20 / Lab section A: T 9:30-12:20 / Lab section B: W 12:30-3:20
A hard-boiled egg is just a big cell. You can slice it in ovals or circles and not all slices will have yolk. If you had only one
slice, could you figure out what the whole egg looked like? Like Legos, we’ll use the basic building blocks of plant and
animal cells to make tissues and organs particular to each species. You will learn to recognize and describe cells, tissue
and organs; and to understand the colors, textures and architecture as clues to the function of the organs. This is a great
introduction that integrates cellular anatomy, physiology, genetics and development in plants and animals.
BIOL 466 Pathobiology of Emerging Diseases Spring 13 (3)
Lecture T 1:30-2:20 / Lab F 1:30-3:20
Newspapers describe devastating disease outbreaks in plants and animals. What’s going on? It’s a
borderless world! Species are competing for resources in the same niche and predators are
adapting to the new communities. Infected plants and animals move across hemispheres in a day.
Pathogens have become agents of global politics. Using current scientific literature and class
discussion, we’ll characterize ten emerging diseases in plants and animals: the agent of disease, the
host response, and remediation in the individual and ecosystem.
Caprine
Neurobiology Program
Information Session
The Neurobiology Student Club will be hosting an information session Monday Oct 1st in Hitchcock Hall room 320 from
3:30-4:20pm. The session will include current students and faculty present to answer any and all questions for interested
students. The session will also include faculty from the Computational Neuroscience training program.
Questions contact Tom Freng at [email protected].
Neurobiology Program application deadline
The application deadline for those interested in applying to the Neurobiology Program will be Friday Oct 12th.
Applications are available in Hitchcock Hall room 318 or via the Neurobiology Program webpage. All applications should
be submitted to Tom Freng, program counselor located in Hitchcock Hall room 318.
For questions contact Tom at [email protected].
EXROP (Exceptional Research)
Elischa Sanders
Elischa Sanders a Neurobiology undergrad student doing research in Jeff Riffel’s lab, is this
year’s EXROP (Exceptional Research Opportunity) student.
This is funded by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute for a summer long research experience
at Baylor College of Medicine to work with Dr. Hugo Bellen, who is a neuroscientist and a
HHMI Investigator.
Elischa attended a scientific meeting at HHMI headquarters in Spring 2012 & will attend
another meeting in Spring 2013 to present a poster of his summer research experience.
5
‘Be the Change’ Student Competition
First Place Award
Their research also shows that E. culicivora prefers blood filled mosquitoes,
and therefore feeds on female, blood-filled
Anopheles, more than any other form
of prey. E. culicivora is the only known
organism with the potential to eliminate the
mosquito directly after it acquires malaria
from a human blood meal, making it an
effective form of malaria prevention. In
addition, these jumping spiders are only
3-6mm in length, and therefore pose no
physical threat to humans. In East African
cultures, Arachnophobia is not prevalent; it
is a fear born mainly in Western culture and
is usually a response to large spiders.
UW Seniors Adam Tanaka, Christine Sullywest and Roshan Mahoney
In the Winter of 2011, The Washington Global Health Alliance partnered with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
and launched the inaugural Be The Change Student Competition. This competition challenged high school and college
students to come up with an innovative solution to a global
health problem. After almost six months of brainstorming
and research, three of our own UW Biology undergraduates
received the first place award in this competition!
The finalists of Be the Change were UW seniors Roshan
Mahoney, Christine Scullywest, and Adam Tanaka. The
team wanted to challenge traditional methods used for
preventing malaria. The result of their research: an
integrated approach to controlling the transmission of
malaria with the help of a tiny spider, Evarcha culicivora.
Background: The World malaria report 2011
recorded 216 million cases of malaria and
over half a million deaths from malaria in
2010. The majority of these deaths happen
to children under the age of five living
in Africa. In Eastern Africa, a child dies every minute from
malaria. Malaria is transmitted through the bite of the female
Anopheles mosquito that contains the malaria parasite. The
spider that they will use to reduce this transmission targets
these specific mosquitoes as their primary food source and
prefers prey that has just had a blood meal. This is important
because if the blood meal that the mosquito has just taken
contains the malaria parasite, the mosquito will infect the next
person it bites. The project uses the natural predator-prey
relationship between E. culicivora and Anopheles to stop this
cycle and reduce the transmission rates of malaria.
Project: The project will use an integrated approach to malaria
vector control with the innovative addition of the spider
Evarcha culicivora. This spider has never been used before to
prevent disease and it fills a new niche in the area of malaria
vector control. E. culicivora is the only known organism with
“When people think of spiders, they usually don’t take into
consideration their scientific value” team member Mahoney the potential to eliminate the mosquito directly after it acquires
malaria from a human blood meal, making it an effective form
states. But after Scullywest showed her partners articles
written after the 2010 floods in Pakistan, the team knew they of malaria prevention. In addition, these jumping spiders are
only 3-6mm in length, and
were onto something.
therefore pose no physi“When Pakistan was struck with widespread floods, spiders
cal threat to humans. In
congregated in trees for refuge, and formed massive group
East African cultures,
webs above floodwaters. In areas where spiders webs were
Arachnophobia is not
dense, the number of mosquitoes surrounding these stagprevalent; it is a fear born
nant bodies of water declined, which led to a lower
mainly in Western culture
incidence of malaria” said Scullywest.
and is usually a response
The team, who called themselves the “UW Spider trio”,
to large spiders.
used this example as the inspiration for their research.
With the help of local
Their spider of choice, Evarcha culicivora, was a perfect tool
authorities the team
because it actually prefers to feed on the only carrier of the
will initially locate two
Jumping spider, Evarcha culicivoara
malaria parasite, the Anopheles mosquito.
villages of approximately
“We were in contact with researchers, biodiversity experts,
500 people each. They will have similar demographics,
ecologists, spider breeders and anthropologists from all
documented annual malaria cases, and use malaria prevention
over the world” Tanaka said.
6
practices, such as mosquito nets, pesticides, and oil toxins,
as recommended by the WHO. They plan to release 5,000
spiders into one of the selected villages in Kenya and make
no alterations to the second village. Over the next year, they
will follow and compare the new cases of malaria in both
villages, and track the survival of the spiders. If the number
of new cases is lower in the village where E. culicivora was
introduced, and the size of the spider population is maintained, they will expand our project to additional villages.
They hypothesize that as long as E. culicivora is released in
Eastern Africa, the introductory population and following
generations will be self-sufficient and remain non-invasive.
They will be fostered in an environment similar to their
native one, and their diet will act as an additional form of
vector control outside of strategies implemented by humans.
Blooming
The project will reduce the rate of transmission of malaria
by decreasing the population of mosquito vectors in East
Africa. The use of E. culicivora advances current practices
of malaria prevention and incorporates a new form of vector
control through a species that is native to this region. By
increasing the population size of E. culicivora, they can
essentially control, and thus reduce the number of host
mosquitoes carrying the malaria parasite by taking advantage of their predation on Anopheles. The consumption of
even a few Anopheles females has the potential to reduce the
number of malaria cases within a given community because
one parasitic mosquito can bite and infect multiple humans.
The team anticipates that the introduction of E. culicivora
will have the potential to reduce the prevalence of malaria by
an additional 15% over the course of five years.
Botany Greenhouse
In Room 7, the CV Muhlick Collection, Desert, you find
blooming this plant Ceropegia ampliata whose common name
is Bushman’s pipe.
Members of the genus Ceropegia are characterized by
tubular flowers specially adapted for the temporary capture
of insects for pollination purposes.
NEW Grads
Welcome!
Charles Beightol................... Sidor
Ian Breckheimer................... Hille Ris Lambers
Johana Cantillo Polo.............. Van Volkenburgh
Katie Dobkowski................... Ruesink
Michael Dorrity..................... Nemhauser
Melissa Eng.......................... Jay Parrish
Laura Frost........................... Olmstead
Matthew George.................... Carrington
Kelly Hennessey.................... Wakimoto
Melissa Lacey....................... Van Volkenburgh
Leander Love-Anderegg......... Tewksbury
Shawn Luttrell...................... Swalla
Audrey Ragsac...................... Olmstead
Aric Rininger........................ Cattolico
Yue Shi................................ Wasser
Stephanie Smith.................... Wilson
Charles Williams................... de la Iglesia
Adam Tanaka and Christine Sullywest with Washington Global
Health Alliance Representative and Melinda Gates.
The winning team received cash prize, tickets for an
Argosy trip to Tillicum Village, invitation to a VIP
reception at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation,
and recognition on stage at Groundswell: A Night for
Global Health July 14, 2012.
Melinda Gates gave the keynote address at this 3,000
person, public event, and the winners of “Be the
Change” honored onstage.
7
Tri-Beta & Biology Club
Come join our events!
Hello fellow Bio students!
Welcome to the 2012-13 school year! Learn about the numerous opportunities to connect with
students who share your passion for science. Get inspired, get involved!
Here is a run-down of what is planned for our Biology Community this year:
Tutoring: We want YOU to come to Biology Tutoring – either for help with Biology or Genome,
or as a tutor yourself! Hours are, M-Th 3:30-6:30 PM in the HCK 4th floor student lounge. One
on one tutoring at various times and locations available for sign-up on an online calendar. Email
officer Galen to get involved: [email protected]
Meetings: During the quarter we bring an engaging lecturer to share a unique aspect of biology
with you! Our FIRST meeting will be on October 4th, at 4:00PM in HCK 132!
T-shirts: Keep a lookout for our first T-shirt sale days (first Wednesdays of every month),
the first being Wednesday, October 3rd around 11-2:00 time frame in the HCk 3rd floor atrium.
Honors Society: We also offer the option to become a member of the Beta Beta Beta National
Biological Honors society. Tribeta is the UW branch of this society, though our club is open to
everyone! E-mail officer Olga at [email protected] to get involved!
Good luck this quarter, and we hope to see you at our meetings and events!
— Olga Afichuk UW Tribeta President 2012-13, [email protected]
Free TriBeta Tutoring
UW Intro Biology Series 180, 200 & 220
UW Introductory Biology students:
Fourth floor lounge in Hitchcock
How comfortable you feel studying biology is irrelevant. Those who do well in
Biology 180, 200, and 220 are those who study with others and ask questions.
That’s it: that’s the secret.
It’s where TriBeta can help!. TriBeta Tutoring provides someone to answer your
questions and work with you as you process the UW intro bio series. We provide a
place for you to work and meet people, with snacks, and we do it for free.
Our tutors are students who’ve taken the full 180-220 series, done well, and enjoy
teaching. They can help you with material, concepts, study habits and more.
There are two ways to take advantage:
1) Attend our study lounge on the 4th floor lounge in Hitchcock, at the following
times: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday: 3:30-6:30 pm
You go to Hitchcock every week for lab. Just enter the building from campus per normal (via the foot bridge over Pacific
Street onto the 3rd floor), then go up one level.
2) Sign up for personal tutoring at the following link (see instructions at top of page): http://students.washington.edu/
tribeta/tutoring.html. If you want to do well, try us out! And if you like the idea of tutoring others, feel free to shoot us an
email -- there are a host of benefits, and we can get you involved once you finish the intro series.
All questions are welcome, Galen Pizzorno, TriBeta Tutoring Coordinator, [email protected]
Biology Apparel Day
The first wed of the month
Biology Apparel Day happens the first Wednesday of ever y month: October 3rd, November
7 & December 5. Watch for signage on the Biology Skeleton in the atrium.
If you are wearing Biology Apparel on a first Wednesday of the month throughout the year, you can
come to Hitchcock, Room 318 (advising) to receive a sweet treat AND an opportunity to submit your
name for a chance at a grand prize.
Biology apparel is available for sale through TriBeta or available from the Advising office 318.
8
Career Fairs & Workshops
Several are headed your way
Take advantage of these workshops and more offered by the The Career Center
MGH 134 http://careers.uw.edu
Resume & Cover Letters – Thurs., Sept 27 | 3:30 – 4:30 pm
Is your resume and cover letter up-to-date? Increase your understanding of how your resume and cover letter are used in the
job search and make sure they target your career goal. Learn how to compose a resume that reflects your greatest strengths
and talents. Explore formats that say, “Hire me!” Learn the nuances of email and online resume submissions.
Networking for Shy People (& Ever yone) – Thurs., Oct 5 | 12:30 – 1:30 pm
This workshop is for those of us (including one of the facilitators) who are, shall we say, “network challenged”. Whether you
are in the job search, exploring career options or researching graduate school opportunities, you will learn some easy, nonthreatening ways to connect with others to meet your goals. Includes “the approach,” ways to get “them” talking (so you can
rest – and listen!), dealing with silence, getting the info, and how and when to move-on and follow-up. You will discover the
excellent conversationalist that you are!
Career Fair Success – Mon., October 15 | 3:30 – 4:30 pm
Find out what to expect at career fairs. Learn how to plan a strategy for the most effective and efficient use of your time at a
fair, how to craft an introduction that makes a good impression, what to wear, and how to follow-up after the fair.
Career Fair Success – Wed., October 24 | 3:30 – 4:30 pm
Find out what to expect at career fairs. Learn how to plan a strategy for the most effective and efficient use of your time at a
fair, how to craft an introduction that makes a good impression, what to wear, and how to follow-up after the fair.
UW Farm
What have you grown today to eat?
The UW farm strives to create spaces on campus for students to learn about and
practice sustainable urban agriculture.
The farm consists of a ¼ acre plot surrounding the botany greenhouses and a ½ acre plot at the Center For Urban Horticulture. At the botany greenhouse space, you’ll see food squeezed into every corner, in buckets, climbing up twine, in raised
beds, and on hillsides. You’ll also find five beehives, steaming compost piles, and a hecka-ton of worms!
Currently, all the food gets eaten by student
volunteers.
The goal of the new ½
acre is to produce food
to sell to Housing and
Food Services and the
UW Student Food Coop!
This is the farms seventh
year and is a student run
campus organization.
We are always looking for
new volunteers! You are what keeps the farm going!
If you are interested check out our website (www.
uwfarm.org) and join the mailing list, or come to
one of our monthly All Farm Meetings, where you’ll
learn what we’re up to and how to get involved!
Any questions? Contact Rachel Stubbs
([email protected]) Senior, Biology (Ecology, Evolution and Conservation)
9
The Intern Life
Smithsonian Gardens in Washington DC
Terence Huang, Win 2011 Grad
Plant Biology with Minor ESRM
It seems like a blur now,
but I still remember when
it all began. It was after
the holiday festivities of
December 2011.
The skies were dark with the threat of ice and snow and the
only thing that offered respite from the cold world outside was
the warm Botany Greenhouse. What was a boy with a Bachelor of Science in Plant Biology to do? In this northerly latitude
the earth slept at this time of year and no botanizing could
be had. Visiting a tropical paradise sounded like a dream, but
alas - that was it, just a dream. At this point, the continuous
days of gloom and darkness began to take its toll. Was there
any way for me to travel, while receiving a paycheck? Is that
even plausible? Surely I began a downward spiral into delusion, but fortunately before I had gone too far down the rabbit
hole a kind soul in the greenhouse floated by and offered me
gentle suggestion: “What about another internship?” But of
course, the answer was right in front of me! Another internship! I began my first step into the ‘Intern Life’ with a summer
internship at the University of Washington Botanic Gardens.
There I immersed myself into the world of public gardens and
really got a taste of what all that it took to run a successful one.
Public gardens, which include botanic gardens and conservatories, are not just there to be beautiful; in fact many of them
help support the plant sciences through funding, conservation, and research. This support creates a place where people
of different disciplines in humanities, education, and science
can come together to create an accessible living museum of
our world’s sometimes-overlooked organisms. There are many
10
ways to search for internship opportunities, but my favorite
way is to make appointments to meet with professors and
staff in your major to talk about planning out your next
move after undergraduate studies. They’ve been through
this point in their life and there is a lot to be learned from
their experiences (and plus they know people). Through
talking with my professors I learned of an internship
opening in DC at the Smithsonian, which I applied for
and became the chosen candidate. Smithsonian Gardens
offered me a 12-week summer internship with a stipend,
where I would be
responsible for the working in and
around the National Museum of
Natural History. There I was given
freedom to decide what to get out
of this opportunity. I have an
interest in doing curatorial work,
so my supervisor gave me the
responsibility of revamping their
accessioned plant inventory. This
included plant identification,
updating taxonomy, research, and
some consulting/design. Internships are a great way to really get
acquainted with your chosen career
path and it also allows you to travel,
meet new people, and to connect
with the world. If ever you find
yourself lost on a cold, dreary winter
day and needing of some guidance,
why not do an internship? You never
know where you will end up.
11
Acolades
Congratulations
• FACULTY HONORS
Biology professor and Wadsworth Endowed Chair in Conservation Science DEE BOERSMA is a recipient of this year’s Ocean
Conservation Award for her research studying Magellanic penguins and the effects of human interference and policy changes on their
survival. This accolade, presented by the Aquarium of the Pacific, recognizes those who are committed to environmental stewardship and
contribute considerably to ocean conservation.
Biology professor emerita ESTELLA LEOPOLD was this year’s recipient of the Grace Hopper Outstanding Achievement Award by
Seattle Girls’ School. This award recognizes women who have excelled remarkably in their fields and contribute to the greater community.
Among many accomplishments, Estella has utilized her expertise as a paleobotanist and conservationist to lobby successfully for conservation efforts across the United States.
Biology professor and Herbarium Curator RICHARD OLMSTEAD was named as a Botanical Society of America Merit Award winner for
his exceptional contributions to transforming the field of plant systematics. The BSA commends Richard and states that “the integration of
his excellent research program with public outreach activities through the Burke Museum and the University of Washington herbarium
serve as a model for how we should be sharing our botanical knowledge to improve the world.”
DR. BILLIE J. SWALLA was honored at the annual Undergraduate Research Symposium for her outstanding mentorship of undergraduate researchers. Billie encourages her students to present their research at every opportunity, meets with students weekly to ensure they
are on the right track, and creates opportunities for undergraduates to attend international research conferences.
Congratulations to TOM DANIEL, MICHAEL DICKINSON, and KEIKO TORII: Biology’s newest members of The Washington State
Academy of Sciences! The WSAS provides expert scientific and engineering advice to state policy makers, and works to increase the role
and visibility of science in Washington State.
Congratulations to Assistant Professor JAY PARRISH for winning a Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers
(PECASE)! Parrish’s innovative research on the growth, development, and patterning of neurons made him one of only 22 scientists
nationally selected for this award by the Department of Health and Human Services. The PECASE is the highest honor bestowed by the
U.S. government on scientists and engineers in the early stages of their independent career. PECASE awards provide five years of support,
and afford recipients with the opportunity to meet President Obama and receive an extension on their research grants.
The Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology’s Division of Ecology and Evolution (DEE) announced a new prize for the best
student presentation at the SICB annual meeting, named in honor of Professor RAY HUEY! SICB states “Ray has been an integral part of
SICB for 40 years, and without fail he presents cutting-edge science and gives great talks. Ray also embodies the student focus of the SICB
meetings—by talking with any and all conference goers, from first-time students to established scientists.”
• STUDENT HONORS
Graduate students MARIE CLIFFORD, CARRIE GLENNEY, and WILLIAM HARDIN were awarded Graduate Research Fellowships from the National Science Foundation. This award provides three years of funding and “recognizes outstanding graduate students
in NSF-supported science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral
degrees.”
DANIEL EVANS is headed to the Washington, D.C. area this fall to work with conservation and sustainability programs as a recipient
of the AAAS Science and Technology Fellowship. This opportunity allows “accomplished scientists and engineers to participate in and
contribute to the federal policy making process while learning firsthand about the intersection of science and policy.”
Ph.D. candidate EMILY GRASON won a NOAA NERRS Graduate Research Fellowship, providing three years of support to conduct
research within a National Estuarine Research Reserve. Recipients “gain hands-on experience by engaging with reserve staff and
participating in their host reserve’s research, education, stewardship and training programs.”
DEREK SMITH, a Ph.D. student in Kenneth Sebens’ lab, was awarded a National Science Foundation GK-12 Fellowship for both
2011-2012 and 2012-2013 academic years. This fellowship provides support for graduate students in science, technology, engineering, and
mathematics (STEM) disciplines “to acquire additional skills that will broadly prepare them for professional and scientific careers in the
21st century.”
Biology majors ERIN BROWN and ABBY CHRISTENSEN were awarded Libraries Student Employee Scholarships. The scholarship
aims to provide assistance for University Libraries student employees.
In the Winter of 2011, The Washington Global Health Alliance partnered with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and launched
the inaugural Be The Change Student Competition. This competition challenged high school and college students to come up with an
innovative solution to a global health problem. Three of our own UW Biology undergraduates received the first place award, UW seniors
ROSHAN MAHONEY, CHRISTINE SCULLYWEST, and ADAM TANAKA. The team wanted to challenge traditional methods used
for preventing malaria. The result of their research: an integrated approach to controlling the transmission of malaria with the help of a
tiny spider, Evarcha culicivora.
• ALUMNI HONORS
JANE LUBCHENCO, the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), is a recipient of Yale University’s honorary degree of Doctor of Science. A graduate of the Master’s program in the former Department of Zoology, Jane was described
by Yale as a “steward of the sea and sky” and a “fierce advocate for using scientific expertise in the realm of policy and government.”
12
Get Connected in Biology
Visit today!
Biology Undergrad Listser ve
TriBeta Honor Society & Bio Club
The Biology Advisers maintain a listserve called biostudent.
Anyone can request to be added to this email notification
system. Notices regarding jobs, research, internship and
scholarship opportunities as well as course announcements
and event notices are sent out to this list. Want to be in the
know? Visit this site and enter your information to request to
be added to biostudent: http://mailman1.u.washington.edu/
mailman/listinfo/biostudent:
http://students.washington.edu/tribeta/
Beta Beta Beta is an honor society for students, especially
undergraduates, dedicated to improving the understanding
and appreciation of biological study.
The Biology club is sponsored by Tri-Beta and is open to all
UW students, faculty and staff interested in biology. The
purpose of the club is to reach out to the larger UW community and allow anyone interested to attend Tri-Beta’s meetings
and events. There is no fee, GPA requirement or need to
have taken a biology course.
Go to this site and you will see two gray boxes
1: Need to type in your email address (uw.edu address ONLY)
2: Need to type in your name (optional)
3: Need to check the box about list mail being batched
No — you will receive them separately
Yes — you will receive them all in one daily batch
4: Click the subscribe button and your part is done
UW Farm
http://students.washington.edu/uwfarm/ and
https://www.facebook.com/UWFarm
UW Biology Department Website
The UW Farm is now a registered student organization with
over 600 members. If you would like to learn more about the
farm please join our listserve and facebook page and show up
for a work party, or come to our next all-farm meeting.
www.biology.washington.edu
UW Biology Facebook Page
www.facebook.com/UWBiology
Burke Museum
EnviroLink & BioLink
http://www.burkemuseum.org/
http://uwbiolink.wordpress.com/
http://environmentlink.wordpress.com/
General Admission FREE to Burke Members, children 4 and
under, and UW staff/faculty/students
EnviroLink and BioLink are groups of academic advisers in
their respective areas who meet regularly to help students
interested in those areas discover which major is best for
them, career choices, and resources to better navigate the
University of Washington. Check out their blogs here for
information and events:
Free Admission—First Thursdays Admission is free to the
public on the first Thursday of each month.
2012 Int’l Conservation
Photography Awards
UW Undergrad Research Program
June 30 to November 25
http://www.washington.edu/research/urp/
These photographs capture beautiful moments in
the natural world, showcase the amazing abilities of
environmental photographers, and raise awareness
of conserving the world’s natural resources.
Career Center at UW
http://careers.uw.edu/
Conser vation Magazine
http://www.conservationmagazine.org
Want to learn about cutting edge science that is making
for smarter conservation? Then you’ll want to look at
Conservation Magazine. It’s a quarterly publication
(produced in the UW Department of Biology) that focuses on
the remarkable efforts people are making to protect species
and habitats. And it features some stories you won’t find
anywhere else. Recently, for example, Conservation reported
on an interesting little study about sharks. It turns out that
sharks appear to be color-blind. That little nugget could help
conservationists design better ways of keeping them out of
fishing nets – and even away from beaches. That’s just one
example of the unusual, interesting stories you’ll find in
every issue of Conservation. Subscription are just $19.
Check it out at: www.conservationmagazine.org.
13
Biology Advisors
Undergraduate Advising Hitchcock 318
The Undergraduate Biology Advising Dept:
OPEN: Monday thru Friday 8 am to 5 pm.
General Phone: 206-543-9120
We welcome UW and prospective students to
contact us with any questions regarding an option
in Biology or Neurobiology.
Kay Suiter, Jason Patterson, Julie Martinez, Jeannette Takashima, Janet Germeraad, Andrea Crosby, Tom Freng
Biology Study Area
Open walk-in: Monday - Friday 9:00 am to 12 pm
and 1:00 to 4:00 pm or contact one of our four
advisors for an appointment by phone or email.
The photo on the right (in the Greenhouse’s
Desert Room) includes the advisors and the office
staff of Room 318. Advisors are: Jason, Janet,
Andrea and Tom. Staff is Kay, Julie and Jeannette.
Missing is Castor the resident Axolotol.
Hitchcock 220 - All students are welcome!
This is a GREAT place to study. All students are welcome-not just Biology majors!
The BSA is open Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm.
The computers are 20” iMacs running both Mac &
Windows.
Located on the second floor of Hitchcock, the Biology
Study Area (BSA) Room 220, provides a quiet place to
study individually or in groups, to use computers and
to ask computer- or biology-related questions of the
resident biologist/technologist.
Mr Toad checking out the growth of the
Vertricaria in the large Algae Pet bottle
on the BSA counter.
We have new IT staff: Malick Tguyeni, a graduate
student in Information Systems. He will be working
part-time in the Biology Study Area and responding
to IT help requests within the department.
Mystery Plant
Guess it and win!
This is the Autumn Quarter myster y
plant and it is blooming right now in
and around the greenhouse.
The hints:
1. Non-edible seed pods when mature
will explode, launching their seeds
several feet away.
2. It has a swollen belly-like trunk.
3. Member of the Euphorbia Family
and comes from Central America
Find it’s genus species and name one of
many common names for this plant,
then come to Hitchcock 318 and submit
your name & email for a drawing for the
prize of a special limited edition, eight
Biology note cards featuring flowers
blooming Autumn Quarter in the
Greenhouse.
Drawing to be after Thanksgiving.
Last quarter’s Myster y Plant
whose common name is Scarlett Runner
Bean & the genus species, Phaseolus
coccineus. Correctly guessed by Cindy
Riskin, Graduate in Forest Resources.
14
Advising Available
Biology & Neurobiology
Walk-in Advising
Janet Germeraad • Tom Freng
Jason Patterson • Andrea Crosby
Mon–Fri, 318 Hitchcock Hall
9:00 am–12:00 pm
1:00 pm– 4:00 pm
Website URL:
http://depts.washington.edu/biology/advising.htm
Undergraduate Academic
Advising and Office of
Minority Affairs & Diversity
141 Mary Gates Hall
206-543-2550
Quick Question hours (Mon–Fri)
9:00 am-4:30 pm
or email [email protected]
http://depts.washington.edu/uaa/advising/index.php
Biology Study Area (BSA)
220 Hitchcock Hall
Mon–Fri
8:30 am–5:00 pm
The Department of Biology
Undergraduate Newsletter
is published by theUniversity of Washington,
Department of BiologySeattle, Washington, 98195
Editor: Jeannette Takashima