UROP Leader Information Submission: Submission #310

First Name: Aoi
Last Name: Koga
Full name as you would like it to appear on the website: Anna Koga
Preferred Pronouns: she/her
Hometown, State, and Country (ex: Tallahassee, FL, USA): Houston, TX, USA
FSU email : ak23o@fsu.edu
Please check this box if you are willing to be contacted by students interested in UROP: No
LinkedIn URL (optional): {Empty}
Major(s): Biological Science
Minor(s): Chemistry and Spanish
Graduation Semester and Year (ex: Fall, 2022): Spring, 2027
What is your current research focus?:
I am currently conducting neuroscience research on the species Astyanax mexicanus, which exists in two distinct morphologies. The surface-dwelling form inhabits a typical lighted freshwater environments, whereas the cave-dwelling form has evolved in a cave environment with complete darkness. Because of this, the cave-dwelling form has lost not only their vision, but their physical eyes as well. Our work focuses on comparing differences in their brain structures, particularly the olfactory system, to better understand the evolutionary adaptations.

Are there any other research related activities you participate(d) in?:
I have had the opportunity to conduct a poster presentation at the Tri-Beta Biological Honor Society annual poster competition, as well as at the Sunposium Conference. 

Answer one of the following two questions about being a UROP Leader or your UROP background. : How has UROP impacted your time at FSU?
Please answer the question you selected above in the area provided.:
Being a part of UROP has been one of the most valuable experiences during my time here at FSU. Not only did it allow me to get involved in research, but it also helped me grow significantly as a student. Before UROP, I had no research experience, so it was my first time fully immersing myself in the field and I truly enjoyed the experience. I gained a new perspective on research and developed valuable skills that will benefit me moving forward. I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to join a lab that I am genuinely passionate about, surrounded by such supportive individuals.

Please list any other hobbies or interests you would like to share:
I studied abroad my first year in London and fell in love with traveling and learning about different cultures. In my free time, I also enjoy learning new songs on different instruments, mainly the guitar and piano. 

Headshot: https://cre.fsu.edu/system/files/webform/urop_leaders_information/22311/Anna_Headshot.jpg
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2026Year2026: 2026
Approved: No
Update URL UROP Leaders: https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=uG_KJB_p1KIaO59SO21tVxNl7kUM9iXqezqXTRKEz2c
Years as a UROP Leader: 2024-2025 and 2025-2026