UNE graduate assistant presents rare lobster research at the Smithsonian

A University of New England research assistant recently presented her research on lobster growth and genetics to an audience of inquisitive minds at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) in Washington, D.C.

Aubrey Jane, M.S. ’24 (Marine Sciences), B.S. ’20 — a researcher in the Invertebrate Physiology Lab of Markus Frederich, Ph.D., professor of marine sciences at UNE — gave a presentation titled “From Little Larvae To Lunch: The Life Cycle Of The American Lobster” in the museum’s Sant Ocean Room on July 2. 

Jane’s attendance at the Smithsonian was part of the museum’s “The Expert Is In” program, an interactive experience that connects the public with scientists to enhance visitors’ understanding of the natural systems showcased at the NMNH.

She was invited to participate in the program as a Knauss Fellow. 

Known as one of the most prestigious fellowships for early-career marine scientists, the Knauss Fellowship is a one-year, paid program that places fellows in federal government offices in Washington, D.C., to apply their knowledge in science, policy, and public administration. Jane was selected for the fellowship last October. 

Jane’s presentation at the Smithsonian featured photos of UNE’s array of rare, colorful lobsters, for which the University has become nationally known. 

A project spearheaded by Frederich and featuring research and specimens from Jane to understand the genetic basis for these lobsters’ rare coloration is currently underway. The project aims to examine the DNA of rare lobsters using novel, non-harmful methods, and a small, purple lobster known as “Fig” caught and raised by Jane is one of the project’s star research subjects.

Jane also exhibited lobster molts and preserved, early life-cycle American lobster specimens, and she discussed details about Maine’s lobster fishery. 

Jane said she was excited to talk with a visitor who “did his homework” before meeting with her, inquiring about a research paper she had previously published with researchers out of the lab of Carrie Byron, Ph.D., associate professor of marine sciences at UNE.

“I had such a great time connecting with folks over our lobsters,” she said of the experience, adding that, “It only takes a few children asking you every question they can think of to make you realize how narrow your scope of expertise really is.”