Brett Cutler

Brett, who is an Arizona native, enrolled in Northern Arizona University to pursue a B.S. in health sciences because he planned a career as a health care professional. Brett became involved in undergraduate research and the resulting experiences caused him to broadened his career objectives to encompass research science. Several extra-curricular experiences, including seasonal field work with the Alaska Fish and Game Department and participation in the Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute, have helped him refine his research interests to include physical science applications in biology, particularly physiology and ecology with respects to fishes, as well as electron microscopy techniques.

Research

Quantification of Elemental Spatial Distribution in Fish Scales: Paving the Way for Geochemical Assessment

The chemical composition of fish scales varies proportionately with respect to the water chemistry in which the scale grows. This relationship allows inference of fish migration patterns through chemical analysis of the scale. Before this can be done successfully, the compositional variation of fish scales within and between species needs to be established. Brett’s research project seeks to quantify this variation using x-ray analysis and spectral imaging on Atlantic tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) scales.

See Brett’s poster at NAU’s 5th Annual Hooper Awards Poster Presentations and Reception

Brett was awarded the Provost’s Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Inquiry.  Congratulations!