Francesca is a PhD student studying paleontology with a focus on evolutionary biology and functional morphology. Francesca’s project consists of micro CT scanning museum specimens of skulls of gophers, pocket mice, and their close relatives. Then, 3D landmark data on scanned specimens are collected, which are then used to analyze cranial variation and covariation across this clade in order to better understand their evolutionary adaptive history. In addition to research, Francesca is also a TA in various labs in the Earth and Environmental Sciences department.

At Ohio Wesleyan, Francesca studied Zoology and was involved in the Zoology Board & Rugby Club. Francesca is comfortable speaking about seeking summer research opportunities (both in the conventional sense and non-conventional sense), networking at conferences, and applying to graduate school. Francesca is also willing to support students & the OWU Community with the following:

• Speaking with a student virtually or on the phone
• Presenting to a student organization
• Conducting a virtual webinar
• Mentoring a student
• Assisting OWU Alumni (Recent Alumni, or Alumni in transition)
• Serving as a resume reviewer for OWU students and/ or Alumni
• Hosting a student for an externship or shadowing experience