Xiaolu Wei
Graduate Student, The Larracuente Lab
You work in a laboratory. What are you currently researching?
I work in the Larracuente lab and am interested in the male meiotic drive system in fruit flies called Segregation Distorter (SD). In this system, the driver SD can manipulate meiosis to favor the transmission of itself at the cost of the other allele. The consequence is a lower fertility of the fly and almost all its offspring will have the driver. I am working to understand the molecular mechanism of this selfish behavior.
What was it that originally sparked your interest in biology?
It started in high school when I was introduced to the world of biology. Fascinated by the wonder and mystery of life, I decided to explore more in college. And look, here I go, still exploring…
What’s the most important thing that you’ve learned working here and/or studying biology?
Things may turn out to be not as initially thought. Always keep an open mind to new ideas.
What do you enjoy most about working here at the U of R?
I enjoy working here at U of R because I always feel supported. No matter what questions you have, there is always someone to talk to. I also love the diverse environment and am happy to be part of it.
How do you unwind when you’re not in the lab?
I like walking or biking along the Erie Canal when the weather is good. Badminton is another thing I love. At home, I like watching cooking shows and trying new recipes.