While I was able to get out in the field a fair amount during my time in Brazil, I also spent a lot of time in the lab learning about molecular and genetic techniques that are hugely important in research (an area that I was lacking). Most days were spent learning from all of the students at the National Institute of Amazonian Research (INPA) in the Laboratory of Ecophysiology and Molecular Evolution (LEEM).
Dr. Adalberto Val and Drs. Vera Val (Directors of LEEM) were kind enough to guide me through my stay while connecting me with Portuguese/English speaking students who were able to explain the various research projects being conducted at the lab. The laboratory space was extremely well set-up and the number of students under their supervision rivaled any lab I have ever come across. It was truly mind blowing. All of the research being carried out in the lab is related to Amazonian fishes and aquatic species that are hugely important to the region both ecologically and economically. The work they are doing is extremely important in understanding how human impacts affect the animals in the aquatic ecosystem.
Throughout my stay I was amazed at how much work is going on in Amazonas and how many unique research topics are being addressed. If anyone out there is interested in working in the Amazon, check out INPA and the endless opportunities available associated with aquatic and terrestrial research. I hope you enjoy the pics!
