
Dominic Aiello
I am a sophomore at Pitt majoring in Ecology & Evolution, with a minor in Chemistry, and a certificate in GIS. I started working with the Turcotte Lab at the Pymatuning Lab of Ecology through the Summer Undergraduate Research Program the summer before my sophomore year. My project investigated the effects of density on eco-evolutionary dynamics. In my free time, I enjoy taking walks in the woods, kayaking, reading, and playing board games. I am excited to continue learning about ecology and rapid evolution through duckweed in this lab!

Barrak Wali (He/Him)
Hey! My name is Barrak and I’m a junior at University of Pittsburgh. My major is biological sciences and I’m minoring in economics. When I’m not busy with my studies, I love to travel and expose myself to new cultures and ideas. This research project is a great portal for me to expand my knowledge on my passion and prepare me for my future goals.

Brandon Achey (He/Him)
I am a Junior at Pitt majoring in microbiology, while also getting minor in chemistry and history. My first lab I took was duckweed survivor and I really enjoyed studying aquatic plants. When not engaged in classes, I participate in community service through my community service organization. Some of my hobbies include going on hikes, playing pickleball, and playing volleyball.

Olivia Carson

Reagan Hamilton
I am a junior at Pitt majoring in biology with minors in environmental engineering and chemistry with a certificate in sustainability. I am an active member of the students for sustainability and ski and snowboard clubs on campus. In my free time, I enjoy playing soccer, running, and shopping. I also worked as a UTA for duckweed survivor and I am so excited to now be able to work with further and learn more about duckweed in the Turcotte lab.

Heather Doughtery
I am a senior Ecology and Evolution major with a minor in history. I’ve always been interested in the environment and look forward to learning more about duckweed. After college, I would like to pursue a career in conservation. In my free time, I love watching movies and baseball, as well as traveling to new places.

Micheal O'Brien
I’m a senior at Pitt who majors in biology and has a minor in chemistry. I’m both interested in and appreciative of how duckweed can be used to clean up the environment through absorption of toxic metals. In my free time, I enjoy playing the piano, going to the gym, playing soccer, and spending time with my friends.

Tyler Snyder
I am a junior at the University of Pittsburgh, majoring in biology and minors in chemistry and economics. Outside of my academics, I enjoy golfing and playing basketball. I am excited to be a part of the Turcotte Lab and further my expertise in research and laboratory techniques.

Charley Wan
Hello! My name is Charley Wan and I am a Neuroscience Major with a minor in Sociology and Economics! My research interests lie in the checks within diverse ecological communities of duckweed that help them endure destructive circumstances!

Rose DiPaolo
I'm a junior Biology major, chemistry minor. I adore the outdoors and love participating in the research that helps us understand it. Outside of class, I'm in the Treble Choir Ensemble at Pitt, I love to cook, and I'm a huge Star Trek geek. I hope to pursue a PhD within the field of Biology and learn something new everyday.

Jackson Baker
Hi! My name is Jackson and I am a sophomore at the University of Pittsburgh. I am majoring in biological sciences with a minor in chemistry. I have strong interest in plant biology and fungal applications in the medicinal and agricultural worlds. The lab of experimental evolution and ecology has allowed me to explore the multiple disciplines and impacts plants have on the environment, pushing me along in my career as a scientist.










