Turner Baker

Research Area

My primary focus within the Proulx Lab, is to further study the symbiotic relationship between Drosophila Melanogaster and Sacchromyces Cerevisea. With funding through FRAPS and URCA grants, I am conducting experiements to test the taste and olfactory capabilities to test drosophilae ability to differentiate between sporulated and vegetative cerevisea cells. Specially designed Fly Cafes will be utilized to quantify percentages of sporulated media versus vegetative media consumption. Upon the demonstration of strong preference, varieties of mixed medias will be used to more accurately represent the natural fly feeding phenomenon.