DNA.

My typical day in the Lutzoni Lab is packed with DNA extractions. I arrive at the lab between 10 and 10:30AM, and Carlos – my mentor – and I begin our morning extractions. We perform DNA extractions on 48 lichen samples each morning, and Carlos and I work simultaneously. I love the morning extraction procedure, as it is quite relaxing. I also enjoy listening to music while working, which helps pass the time during centrifugation steps (when I cannot touch anything because we use scary chemicals :D).

After completing our morning extractions a little after noon, we have lunch! I enjoy getting to know other lab members and my PI, Dr. Lutzoni, during this time. I’ve also had the chance to meet faculty and scientists from different labs on the floor, which has been insightful. It has been exciting to speak with graduate students who share their experiences in completing their Ph.D. programs, whether navigating finances, managing personal relationships, or post-graduation plans in industry or academia.

Carlos and I focus on environmental DNA extractions in the afternoon. These environmental samples consist of soil, pine needles, mosses, etc., found nearby and between lichens. I help prepare for the DNA extractions by allocating environmental samples into test tubes (essentially wrangling with leaves and soil using two forceps). Meanwhile, Carlos extracts DNA from the 24 samples I had prepared the day before. Once the samples are prepared, I prepare 48 lichen samples for the next day’s extractions. We also perform PCRs, check DNA qualities, and run gels between our extractions!