ABOUT THE LAB:In the FLYSY laboratory we study the performance of neural systems. Our aim is to understand how fast and accurate responses can be achieved with a limited number of neurons.
We have two main methods of study: High speed video recordings of flies predating and electrophysiology to record nerve signals in response to stimuli. By carefully curating what we present in either situation we can come to a more comprehensive understanding of behavior, the physiology that drives it and the environmental factors that effect how predation is carried out by these tiny animals. WHY DO WE STUDY VISUALLY GUIDED PREDATORS?A predatory lifestyle puts a premium on neural performance because movements have to be carried out with precision in a timely manner. Moreover, because predation is an innate behaviour, the knowledge acquired during our research is a true reflection of the information processing abilities of the neural system under study. Visual stimuli are also relatively easy to present.
WHY DO WE STUDY INVERTEBRATES, SUCH AS FLIES?The diversity of invertebrate groups provides us with the means for comparative studies. We can pick several predatory species that are close or distantly related and ask what neural coding strategies are shared, and which are species, niche or task specific.
|
We're currently looking for a PhD student to work with us to study decision making in predatory dipterans.
If this is of interest, please get in contact with us!
If this is of interest, please get in contact with us!
We have moved!
We now are to be found in St Paul, Minnesota! We are part of the College of Biological Sciencies, in the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior. Our building is a beautiful bright space right by the state fairgrounds, and we can't wait for the thaw to see what the local insects are like! If you want to learn more about what the new lab spaces are like, check out the list here |