The Science of Love, with Dr Lisa A. McGraw

Hello club members,

The Biology Club's next meeting is on Monday, February 11, at 5:30 pm in 102 David Clark Labs.  Dr. Lisa A. McGraw, a member of the NCSU Biology and Genetics departments, is giving a Valentine's Day themed presentation on the science of love.  In order to study social and reproductive behaviors in the lab, Dr. McGraw uses a unique rodent, the socially monogamous prairie vole.  Unlike their "promiscuous" cousin, the meadow vole, a prairie vole forms a long-lasting bond to its mate, and both the male and female help take care of their offspring.  Dr. McGraw draws on theories and techniques from evolutionary biology, neuroscience, and genetics to explore the differences between these species and, in the process, answer questions about the basis of social behaviors and the consequences of sexual conflict.

Also happening next week:

The next day, Tuesday, February 12, the Biology Department is celebrating Darwin's birthday.  Make sure to stop by the lobby of David Clark Labs from 3-4 pm for some free tea, cake, evolution cookies, and other Darwin-themed celebrations!

The final application deadline for Teach for America is Friday, February 15.   Teach For America is the national corps of outstanding recent college graduates, graduate students, and professionals from all different majors and backgrounds who commit to teach for two years in urban and rural public schools and become lifelong leaders in expanding educational opportunity.  All academic majors and backgrounds accepted (background in education/teacher certification is not required), and teachers receive full salary and benefits, as well as deferment of federal student loans.  Graduate school and corporate partnerships are available.  For more information, visit www.teachforamerica.org or contact Teach For America’s representative atFlorence.matthews@teachforamerica.org.

Saturday, February 16, is Darwin Day at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (http://naturalsciences.org/programs-events/darwin-day-2013), and Dr. Holly Menninger, who visited the club earlier this semester to talk about Your Wild Life, is looking for a few volunteers to talk to visitors in the Biodiversity Lab.  The lab will be open from 10-4 pm, and she needs volunteers for 3 hour shifts (10-1 pm and 1-4 pm).  Lunch is provided.  If you're interested, please contact Dr. Holly at holly.menninger@gmail.com ASAP.

Hope to see you on Monday!

Best,
Gabrielle Schroeder
Vice President
NCSU Biology Club

Dr. Lisa A. McGraw