ECR Spotlight – Florence Hunter-Manseau

Florence Hunter-Manseau

How did you become interested in biology?

My interest in biology developed early on, with a strong curiosity about the natural world and animals. Growing up, I enjoyed spending my free time observing wildlife and spending time outdoors, which nurtured an appreciation for the diversity of life around me. This curiosity led me to ask questions about how living organisms function and interact with their environments. Studying biology in school provided me the opportunity to seek answers to these questions. This interest gradually deepened and guided me toward pursuing a career in biology.

Describe your scientific journey and your current research focus

My scientific journey began in CEGEP (Collège d'enseignement général et professionnel), where I completed a technical diploma in bioecology. During this time, I developed a strong interest in zoology, physiology and molecular biology – subjects that quickly became my favorites. This interest led me to an internship with Fisheries and Oceans Canada, where I gained hands-on experience studying fish physiology. This opportunity solidified my decision to pursue further studies in biology at the university level.

During my bachelor's degree, I explored several areas of biology through summer jobs, but I was consistently drawn to animal physiology. This focus led me to a master's program, where I studied how different fish species respond to temperature changes. Building on this foundation, I pursued a PhD to investigate mitochondrial metabolism, focusing on how factors such as diet and temperature influence mitochondrial function. My current research is focused on understanding metabolic flexibility and how organisms adjust to environmental variations, providing insight into cellular responses to dynamic conditions.

How would you explain the main findings of your paper to a member of the public?

My research focused on how temperature variations, such as the daily shifts between warmer days and cooler nights, impact fruit flies. The flies were subjected to two temperature conditions: one with a constant warm temperature and another with alternating warm daytime and cooler night-time temperatures. We observed that the fluctuating temperature regime prompted a series of beneficial adjustments that improved the flies' stress tolerance and longevity. Initially, their cells activated protective mechanisms, including stress-response proteins and processes to repair or remove damaged components. Over time, their mitochondria – the cellular structures responsible for energy production – adjusted to function more efficiently under the new conditions. These changes occurred progressively, with different responses kicking in at different times.

These findings highlight how exposure to mild temperature changes can trigger beneficial adjustments, making organisms more resilient in the long run. This research helps us understand how animals respond to environmental changes, particularly in the context of increasing temperature variability due to climate change.

Why did you choose JEB to publish your paper?

I chose to publish my paper in the Journal of Experimental Biology because of its strong reputation and broad international audience. The journal is renowned for its high-quality research in physiology and experimental biology, which makes it an excellent fit for my work. I also appreciate the contributions JEB makes to the scientific community. Publishing as a first author in such a respected journal aligned with both my professional objectives and the focus of my research, providing an ideal platform to share my findings with the scientific community.

What is your favourite animal, and why?

It's difficult to choose a single favorite animal because I love many species. I'm particularly drawn to woodland animals like squirrels, foxes and wolves for their adaptability and interesting behaviors. At the same time, I find fish and sharks fascinating, especially for their unique physiology and ability to thrive in diverse aquatic environments. For a pet, I really love dogs and wish I lived somewhere I could adopt one. Each of these animals interest me for different reasons, highlighting the remarkable complexity of the natural world!

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time, I enjoy activities that help me unwind and differ from scientific research. Playing video games and reading fiction are some of my favorite pastimes, as they allow me to relax and escape from the world. During my PhD, I also discovered an interest in crochet, which became a unique and creative outlet. I enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and camping, as well as sports like swimming, although I haven't had as many opportunities for them in recent years. However, I have kept up with running regularly.

What is one thing about you that others might find surprising?

People might be surprised to learn how much traveling has been a part of my life. Growing up, my family and I took numerous trips, including a remarkable year spent traveling across Europe in an RV. These experiences fed my curiosity, broadened my appreciation for different cultures, and helped my geographical knowledge. Later, I continued exploring as a solo traveler, visiting places in Canada, the USA, and more recently, Japan, where I immersed myself in diverse landscapes and traditions. I have also shared this passion with my partner, traveling to Ecuador, Peru and parts of the USA.

What's next for you?

The next significant milestone in my career is my PhD defense, which is planned for early 2025. Following my defense, I will be taking on a few roles at the university, including teaching a practical course and leading laboratory demonstrations. Looking ahead, I am actively exploring opportunities to work in research labs, particularly in eastern Canada, where I can continue contributing to the field of biology while broadening my expertise. Some of my long-term aspirations include becoming a research project manager or a lab manager. These roles would allow me to combine my organizational skills with my passion for science, overseeing projects that advance our understanding of biology and supporting innovative research initiatives.