Catherine Tran

In the Alfaro Lab, I analyze the evolution of color in rockfish species—specifically S. miniatus and S. crocotulus, two species of rockfish that are commonly mistaken as one another due to their almost identical morphologies. Using hyperspectrophotometer imagery, we hope to find differences in the spectral reflectance and skin microstructure of the two species. Additionally, I conducted an independent research project on the timeline of color leeching in fish that are subjected to the fixation process.

In Dr. Pinter-Wollman's lab, our project explores how resources and information flow through social networks, particularly in Argentine ants. The research investigates the proximate and ultimate mechanisms behind simultaneous interactions among multiple individuals. My role involves preparing and cutting BEETags that we place on the ants to track their movements and behaviors. This tagging system allows us to monitor complex social dynamics and higher-order interactions beyond simple one-on-one exchanges. Also, I am in charge of counting how many live ants remain after subjected to certain temperature-modulated trials.

In the Nonacs Lab, I aid in scoring behavioral interactions between invasive Eastern fox squirrels and native Douglas squirrels to determine which species are dominant in physical interactions. Using BORIS, a specialized computer software program to ensure accuracy and precision in scoring, I record the occurrence and frequency of behaviors made during open field tests in recordings taken by graduate students.

In Dr. Sack's lab, I use ImageJ to annotate and quantify minor vein density across diverse leaf sites, supporting the NSF's NEON Project database. Our project focuses on minor vein density, a trait closely tied to photosynthetic efficiency. This research not only deepens our understanding of plant physiology but also informs efforts to conserve biodiversity and promote sustainable energy. I’m excited to contribute to work that has such meaningful ecological impact!

My responsibilities as a behavioral therapist includes providing one-on-one therapy sessions with children, focusing on specific skills such as communication, social interaction, and motor development. By diligently organizing and recording data on the patient’s behavior, progress, and response to individualized intervention plans, I successfully assess the proper exercises that are the most supportive and effective during therapy.

As a cashier and team member, I was responsible for assisting customers with inquiries, addressing concerns, and providing information about products and store policies in a friendly and helpful manner. I also maintained a clean and tidy work environment as well as worked closely with other front of house team members to ensure smooth operations, check out processes, and overall store efficiency.

As a team member, I was responsible for keeping track of product stock levels and alerting management when items need to be restocked. Furthermore, I was in charge of efficiently and accurately handling customer purchases, ensuring safe handling of cash and checks, and maintaining positive interactions with customers. As a barista, my duties were to create specialty beverages according to recipes and customer preferences, ensuring consistency in taste and presentation. I also made sure that drink stations, equipment, and serving areas clean and sanitized to ensure food safety and hygiene standards were met.

Minor in Evolutionary Medicine