The Kane Lab at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette is looking for a MS and/or PhD student to begin Fall 2024.
We take physiological, ecological, and evolutionary approaches to understand the functional morphology and performance of fishes. Our current interests span 3 primary topics:
- Modern classics: Gaining new insights into form/function relationships using classic freshwater sunfish. Much of this work is focused on feeding performance and integration with locomotion.
- Fins, flow, and forces: Understanding station-holding morphology and behavior in sculpins and other benthic fishes. A focus of this work is on pectoral fin form and function.
- Small fish, big questions: Tackling big questions about local adaptation and anthropogenic impacts using live-bearing fishes such as guppies and mosquitofish.
Techniques and approaches include: field collection and lab rearing, 2D and 3D high speed kinematics, linear and geometric morphometrics, scanning electron microscopy, analysis of micro-CT scans, swim tunnel respirometry, and 3D printing. Ideally, work would fit within the scope of these projects and techniques but flexibility is possible and creativity is encouraged! The lab also actively engages the public in science communication and outreach events, and lab members are expected and encouraged to contribute to these efforts. The Kane Lab is committed to the personal and professional success of lab members and welcomes those from non-traditional or underrepresented backgrounds.
Graduate students will be fully funded (stipend + tuition wavier) through teaching assistantships and/or institutional fellowships awarded at the time of acceptance. Additional costs of research projects will be covered as best as possible by Dr. Kane or other sources. However, graduate students are expected to apply for supplemental funding from external sources when available. Interested students should review the graduate admission requirements provided on the department’s website. The department no longer requires the GRE. The priority deadline for Fall 2024 enrollment is Feb 1, 2024.
Interested students are encouraged to email Dr. Emily Kane at emily.kane@louisiana.edu with a current CV and a statement of interest as soon as possible. To learn more about our work, see our website at www.thekanelab.com or find Dr. Kane on Google Scholar.
