In Canada's winters, animals must contend with subzero temperatures. Some species migrate, others find warm microhabitats, and yet others just develop the impressive ability to either prevent or survive ice crystal growth at very low temperatures. Our lab studies the ability of boreal forest pest eastern spruce budworm as well as West Coast intertidal invertebrates to survive and thrive in subzero conditions. We work on everything from the biochemistry of ice binding proteins and the biosynthesis of cryoprotectants through to the impacts of winters on population growth and distribution.

The Hehnly Lab investigates how cellular and intracellular mechanisms establish the Left-Right Organizer (LRO) in vertebrates, a critical structure for body axis formation. Using zebrafish as a model, the lab explores how motile and non-motile cilia within the LRO generate fluid flow or potentially sense it, impacting asymmetric organ development. Open questions include how cells differentiate to form motile versus non-motile cilia and the roles these cilia play in development.

In 2002, author Robin D.G. Kelley published the book "Freedom Dreams," examining the efforts of various social movements across the African Diaspora. In this text, Dr. Kelley posed the questions:

“How do we produce a vision that enables us to see beyond our immediate ordeals?”
“How do we transcend bitterness and cynicism and embrace love, hope, and an all-encompassing dream of freedom, especially in these rough times?”

Computational models are essential tools that can be used to simultaneously explain and guide biological intuition. My lab employs agent-based modeling, machine learning, and dynamical systems to explain biological observations and to uncover design principles that drive individual cellular decisions as well as cell population dynamics. We are interested in the inherent multiscale nature of biology, with a specific focus on system-level dynamics that emerge from interactions of simpler individual-level modules.

As educators, we expand the reach of our classrooms when we create inclusive and welcoming environments that invite students to apply their learning in novel ways. Our evidence-based teaching strategies allow students to scaffold their learning and see deep connections between different organizational levels and subfields of biology. Not only do we strive to create meaningful learning experiences within the classroom, but our scholarship and service shape our students’ broader educational experiences.