Biogeography Research Lab
The Biogeography Research Lab in the Department of Geosciences, Florida Atlantic University (FAU), contains all of the equipment necessary to conduct population genetic analysis (with the exception of an ABI 300 or 3000 series DNA analyzer for capillary gel electrophoresis). However, the lab does contain a Biorad PTC 200 DNA Engine for PCR, New Brunswick I-Series Incubator Shaker, Savant Speed Vac, Mettler Toledo XP Series Balance, non-refrigerated Eppendorf microcentrifuge, refrigerated Fisher Accuspin 1R centrifuge, Ultra-low temp freezer (-80ºC), -20ºC enzyme/sample freezer, 4ºC refrigerator, vortexers, Fisher Isotemp Digital Stirring Hotplate, horizontal gel electrophoresis systems, Photo-Doc-it electrophoresis documentation system and UV transilluminator, microwave, Eppendorf Research Series 2100 Adjustable Volume Pipettors, and assorted glassware, plasticware, mortar and pestles etc...
Other equipment associated with the lab or field research include two fully equiped 12 ft kayaks and transport rack system, Marsh-McBirney Flow-Mate 2000 velocity meter, laser rangefinder/clinometer, light meter, portable pH meter, dbh tape, dbh caliper, 2 tree corers, and numerous 30 m measuring tapes. Following are pictures of the current (12-10-08) lab configuration and equipment.
Lab Personnel
Scott H. Markwith, Ph.D.
P.I./Assistant Professor
Ph.D. University of Georgia
M.S. University of Georgia
B.A. University of Mary Washington
Scott tries to stay out of Garren's way in the lab, while working on funding to keep the operations going. These efforts provide only a minor obstacle to getting out to the field to conduct more primary research. Scott has a beagle named Fitz, who sleeps too much for his own good. He was born in Richmond, Virginia, USA, and has lived all his life in the southeastern US.
Garren Mezza
Laboratory Assistant
B.S. Florida State University
Garren graduate with a B.S. in Environmental Studies and a Certificate in Urban and Regional Planning in June 2009 from FSU. He has worked as an intern in Florida's Governor's Office and as a Sea Turtle Conservation Volunteer in Costa Rica. Garren loves surfing, but his bad wheel keeps him shore-bound right now.
Graduate Students
Dean Monette, Ph.D. Student, Fall 2009 - Present
John Zahina, Ph.D. Student, Fall 2009 - Present
Independent Study Students
Alissa Arbuckle, Fall 2009, Everglades Hydrochory
Dylan Imlah, Fall 2009, Everglades Hydrochory
Justin Dee, Spring 2009, Kissimmee River Hydrochory