Research Symposium

BIO

My name is Lauren Vann, and I am a sophomore studying biology on a pre-vet track with a minor in chemistry. As a military child, I grew up overseas and had the opportunity to live in Japan, Hawaii, Germany, and Okinawa before finishing high school in Pensacola, Florida, where I studied in an International Baccalaureate program. During high school, I developed many passions outside the classroom. I competed in surf competitions, worked at a local exotic pet store, promoted conservation efforts as a lionfish spearfisher, played varsity soccer, babysat and pet-sat for families in my community, and started my own volunteer organization focused on beach cleanups.
Now in college, I have continued to explore my interests and have found a strong passion for working with animals and being involved in my community, which led me to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. My goal is to become a veterinarian in the United States Army (even though my dad served in the Navy). While in college, I have conducted research in microbiology and art under the supervision of Jamel Ali, volunteered at the North Florida Wildlife Center, and served as an executive member of the FSU Surf Club. I have also taken up rock climbing and recently became paragliding certified. As I continue through college, I plan to keep working toward my goal of becoming a veterinarian while also seeking as much adventure and meaningful experience as I can along the way.

Microbio Art

Abstract

BioArt is an interdisciplinary field that combines biology and artistic expression by using living organisms or biological materials to create artwork. Microscopic BioArt specifically focuses on images captured through microscopes and presented in an artistic form, highlighting the structure and beauty of biological specimens. In this project, light microscopy techniques were used to capture detailed images of several biological samples, including a mammalian eye section, fish scales, fish gill tissue, and a cross-section of a starfish arm. Images were collected using multiple light microscopy methods to reveal structural detail. After image acquisition, editing software was used to enhance color, contrast, and overall composition, improving visual clarity and artistic presentation. The resulting images demonstrate how scientific imaging can reveal intricate biological patterns that are often invisible to the naked eye. This project illustrates the connection between science and art by showing how microscopic biological structures can inspire creative expression and deepen appreciation for the complexity and beauty of living systems.

Keywords: Microbiology