Team Leader
Doris Migliaccio
Texas A&M University
Genetics & Genomics, Biology Department
dorism@tamu.edu
Project Type
Research
Who Can Join
Undergraduate Students
Project Description
Animals are deeply affected by their social environments, and these effects can shape how the brain works and how behavior changes. This project explores how social experiences, such as isolation or group living, influence the brain's response to ethanol (alcohol) exposure. We use Drosophila melanogaster (the common fruit fly) as a model because it is genetically accessible, easy to work with, and shares many biological pathways with humans.
Ethanol affects the nervous system in complex ways, and social conditions can play an important role in shaping those effects. I am working to understand how these two factors, ethanol and social environment, interact to influence neural activity, gene expression, and behavior. Our lab also develops new tools and approaches to improve how we collect and analyze behavioral data, helping us observe flies over longer time periods with greater detail.
Students involved in this project may help run behavioral experiments, work with fruit flies, and learn to use imaging or genetic tools to study brain and behavior changes. No prior research experience is needed. This position is a great fit for students who are curious about neuroscience, genetics, or behavior and are excited to gain hands-on experience. I will provide training, mentorship, and support to help you grow your skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific thinking, and you can gain fantastic experience for your future careers and endeavors!
Team Needs
I am looking for students who are curious, eager to learn, and excited to contribute in a collaborative lab environment. A background in biology, genetics, or neurobiology is preferred but not required. Team members can build this knowledge through experience, hands-on mentoring, and active participation in the lab. Students will also have the opportunity to attend lab meetings and journal clubs, where we discuss ongoing projects and current research. These are great spaces to develop critical thinking skills, ask questions, and grow as a scientist.
Special Opportunities
This project offers a range of opportunities for undergraduates who are curious about science and interested in gaining hands-on research experience. Students will learn how to design and run behavioral experiments using fruit flies, a powerful model for studying the brain, genetics, and behavior. No prior experience is needed; all training is provided through close mentoring and active participation in the lab. Along the way, team members will build skills across multiple areas, including neuroscience, experimental design, genetics, and data analysis. Students will also be invited to join weekly lab meetings and journal clubs, where we discuss ongoing projects and current research. These are welcoming spaces to ask questions, learn how to read scientific papers, and gain confidence in talking about science. Because our lab also develops new research tools and data collection methods, students may have the chance to contribute to creative problem solving and innovation. This is a great opportunity for anyone looking to explore research for the first time, build technical and analytical skills, and become part of a collaborative and supportive scientific community.