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Brent Hawkins
 Brent Hawkins
conducts
research in evolutionary developmental
biology, a field that lies at the
intersection of embryology, genetics,
molecular biology, and morphological
analysis. Using this interdisciplinary
approach, Brent seeks to understand the
genes that control animal development and how changes in these genes
have resulted in the diversity of animal shapes observed today. In his
graduate research, he investigates the evolutionary origin of novel
morphological structures. Brent wants to encourage student interest in
evolution and development, and show students how knowledge of these
topics not only enriches our lives but also is medically significant.
Register online
Special Presentations:
Evolution in Action: Lessons from H1N1 Swine Flu
Viruses and bacteria provide the opportunity to view evolution in
action. The 2009-2010 flu season has reiterated the importance of
understanding evolution in preventing virus-associated morbidity and
mortality. Using the 2009 pandemic H1N1 swine flu as a case study,
students will learn how viruses change over time and cause disease. An
in-class disease transmission activity will show students in real time how
one infected person can quickly spread disease to many people.
Students will learn how vaccinations and anti-viral drugs can help
prevent and treat viral infections, and how the future of our healthcare
depends on advances in these areas. During this presentation, students
will be exposed to the basic biology of viruses, possible careers in
medicine, and the importance of evolution to our health. (Grades 7-12)
Effects of Alcohol on Embryo Development
When a mother drinks alcohol during pregnancy a pattern of physical
and mental problems known as Fetal Alcohol Syndrome may arise.
Features of this syndrome include stunted growth and a variety of mental
and behavioral challenges such as poor memory, attention, and impulse
control. During development from a single fertilized egg to adult form, a
complex and essential developmental process directs the formation and
organization of all systems the body will need throughout its life.
Alcohol and drugs interfere with the developmental process, often
leading to congenital malformations. In this presentation, students will
observe firsthand the effects of alcohol on developing zebrafish
embryos. This presentation allows the opportunity to learn about
embryonic development as well as the effects of alcohol on the
developmental process. (Grades 9-12)
DNA Sequencing Made Simple
Due to popular shows such as CSI and Jurassic Park, DNA sequencing is
perhaps the scientific tool best known to the public. But how does this
technology work? What can it do? We will begin by reviewing and
expanding on students' knowledge of DNA structure. Students will then
participate in an activity that demonstrates the workings of the Sanger
method, the most common type of DNA sequencing. Students will learn
how DNA sequence data can be analyzed for use in amazing real-world
applications in medicine, ecology, and evolution. We will also discuss
the next generation of sequencing techniques and the ethical
considerations of inexpensive and widely available sequencing
technology. (Grades 9-12)
Brent earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado
with four science majors: Ecology & Evolutionary Biology; Molecular,
Cellular & Developmental Biology; Biochemistry; and Integrative
Physiology. He is currently working on his Master's Degree in Ecology
& Evolutionary Biology at the University of Colorado at Boulder.
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