Erin Kirk, ‘17, DNA Sampling Technique to Save Salamanders

Posted August 10, 2017

Kirk is a Ledford Scholar who is exploring non-invasive methods for DNA sampling of endangered salamanders.

The Lexington, Virginia native has passion for learning to use new tools in the lab and relate that to research on endangered species. Weller's Salamander

This project has allowed her to combine both, and she hopes to prove the effectiveness of this non-invasive method.

Exploring Whitetop Mountain, Elk Garden, and Mt. Rodgers, her project landed her a spot in the Student Showcase at Ampersand Day 2017.

After graduating she plans on pursuing an internship while she decides what field of biology to study in graduate school.

Open gallery

Erin Kirk presenting in the 2017 Ampersand Day showcase.

I love working in the field and doing something that does not already have a lot of research done on it.

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Erin Kirk, ‘17, DNA Sampling Technique to Save Salamanders

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