Dr. Mackie O'Hara-Ali
<b>Department: </b>Biology<br><b>Research Area: </b>Human and primate evolution; dental enamel; biomineralization; forensic age and sex estimation; paleoanthropology; microCT imaging
Department: Biology
Research Focus: Human and primate evolution; dental enamel; biomineralization; forensic age and sex estimation; paleoanthropology; microCT imaging
Potential Student Project(s):
Have you ever wondered what your teeth can reveal about your biology, your health history, or even your identity? In the O'Hara lab, we study the microscopic structure of teeth to answer questions in several areas: human evolution, primate growth and development, and forensic science.
Teeth are extraordinary biological records. Their internal architecture reflects how a person grew, what they ate, and even biological characteristics like age and sex. Our lab uses techniques including microscopy, microCT scanning (a high-resolution 3D X-ray method), and image analysis software to investigate these structures across humans and other primates.
Depending on your interests and the needs of the lab, you might assist with preparing tooth samples for histological imaging, analyzing microCT scans using image analysis software, reviewing and organizing scientific literature, or entering and managing research data. No two students do exactly the same thing, projects are matched to your curiosity and developing skills.
Attributes/skills/background sought in undergraduate:
No prior research experience is required. An interest in biology, anatomy, forensic science, or anthropology is a plus.
Mentoring Plan:
Undergraduate researchers in the O'Hara Lab are treated as contributors to an active research program, not as passive observers. At the start of the semester, we will meet to identify the student's interests and goals and match them to a project that serves both the lab and their development.
Weekly one-on-one meetings will be used to check in on progress, troubleshoot challenges, discuss relevant background readings, and set goals for the coming week. Students will be introduced to the methods and equipment relevant to their project through guided, hands on training before working more independently. I provide feedback on work products (data summaries, literature notes, image analyses) on an ongoing basis.
By the end of their first semester, students will have contributed meaningfully to an active project and will have a clearer sense of what a career in biological or forensic research looks like. Students who excel and wish to continue are encouraged to do so across multiple semesters, with increasing responsibility over time.
Contact: 765-285-8832, FSB 302