​​ABIGAIL A. CURTIS, Ph.D.

Research Scientist

Santana Lab

Department of Biology

University of Washington, Seattle

Seattle, WA 98195-1800

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EMAIL: abigailacurtis(at)gmail(dot)com

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​CURRICULUM VITAE:

​​View CV

 

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RESEARCH OVERVIEW:

Mammal skulls come in many different shapes and sizes. These differences are related to how different species use their skulls, as well as their evolutionary history. I am interested in understanding patterns in the evolution of skull shape in mammals and how this relates to diet, ecology, behavior, and phylogeny. For my present work as a Research Scientist in the Santana Lab at The University of Washington, Seattle, I am working with a multi-institutional team combining traditional histological methods with high-resolution micro-CT scanning and computational modeling to study how the multiple functions of the bat snout (e.g. feeding, smelling, breathing, echolocation) are accommodated within such a seemingly limited space. My previous work has focused on paranasal sinus and turbinal anatomy and function in bats and carnivores (cats, dogs, hyenas, and kin). I employ a variety of methods ranging from linear morphometrics to 2D and 3D morphometric techniques, and phylogenetic comparative methods to investigate my research questions. I am also interested in using my research to develop outreach tools for educators and the general public.

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Follow me on Twitter @Bats_Inside_Out