Josiah Bowers
Research Technician, Larracuente Lab
What is your current role in the biology department?
I am currently a technician in the Larracuente Lab, where we study a male meiotic drive system in drosophila called segregation distorter. Most of my day-to-day responsibilities involve maintaining fly stocks and doing general lab chores, but I also get to help out with some of the research in the lab which is a lot of fun.
What was it that originally sparked your interest in biology?
I just enjoy things that challenge me intellectually. Any subject that forces me to think more deeply about the world around me or about any of the beliefs I hold about it always catches my attention, and biology in particular is full of great questions and lots of interesting ways to approach them.
What do you enjoy most about working here at the U of R?
The people. All the people I’ve gotten to meet so far have been very kind and welcoming, and, in the Larracuente Lab especially, everyone has been amazing to work with.
How do you unwind when you’re not in the lab?
I really like going to the gym in the morning before work. Starting my day with a lift has been a great way for me to clear my head of stressors and to focus more effectively throughout the day. Also, it’s fun.
What is one thing about yourself that you’d like more people to know?
I also studied philosophy in undergrad, and I love to spend time reading, thinking, and talking about ideas whenever I get the opportunity to do so.