Tom Xu

Zoology undergrad with a heart for conservation-related science and works to help our beautiful natural world.

I have been working as a research assistant for the Del Rio-tsonis Laboratory at Miami University. I conducted eye regeneration research in a newt model. Sought to elucidate molecular and cellular mechanisms which orchestrate lens regeneration.

Employed histological techniques such as microtome tissue sectioning with hematoxylin & eosin staining; and in vivo imagining techniques such as optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Performed raw data processing and statistical analyses to characterize the volume of regenerating newts' lenses.

Maintained the habitat quality and health of over 1000 lab animals.

Contributed to weekly lab meetings by providing critical feedback on presentations of current research, as well as brainstorming new study questions and approaches.

I have been working as a research assistant for a graduate student at Miami University with his research on the relationship between insect species diversity and migratory bird populations in Hueston Woods State Park.

Collection, dissection, and classification of thousands of insect samples and statistical population data analysis are conducted.

Zoology Undergraduate Degree at Miami University, Relevant Coursework:

Conservation Education & Communication,

Epigenetics, Evolutionary Physiology, Ornithology, Ichthyology, and Entomology.