ECR Spotlight is a series of interviews with early-career authors from a selection of papers published in Journal of Experimental Biology and aims to promote not only the diversity of early-career researchers (ECRs) working in experimental biology but also the huge variety of animals and physiological systems that are essential for the ‘comparative’ approach. Louisa Lewicki is an author on ‘ A comparison of seasonal flexibility in pectoralis muscle fiber type and enzyme activity in migratory and resident sparrow species’, published in JEB. Louisa conducted the research described in this article while a undergraduate student in Dr Christopher Guglielmo's lab at Western University, Canada. Louisa is now a Graduate Student in the lab of Dr Dean Betts at Western University, Canada, investigating the effects of season and migration distance on muscle fiber, capillary and enzyme activity in three sparrow species.
Louisa Lewicki
How did you become interested in biology?
My passion for biology grew from several childhood experiences, but one that stands out is a visit to the Field Museum of Natural History. There, I encountered an exhibit showcasing the taxidermized man-eating lions of Tsavo – two male lions infamous for causing numerous human deaths in Kenya. What fascinated me most was how close I could get to these notorious predators and the curious fact that, unlike typical male lions, they lacked manes. This encounter sparked a deep curiosity that led to weekly nature documentary nights with my father, where I eagerly absorbed more about the natural world. While my current research is unrelated to the Tsavo lions, I credit them and the natural history museum with inspiring my early love for biology and setting me on this path of exploration.
Describe your scientific journey and your current research focus
My fascination with genetics and cloning began with two powerful influences: Dolly the sheep and the science fiction of Jurassic Park. These sparked my curiosity about the possibilities of cloning and genetics, opening up an entirely new world of scientific exploration. Currently, my research focuses on alternative techniques for genetically testing embryos and evaluating their potential. Along the way, I've had the privilege of working with Dr Christopher Guglielmo and Dr Catherine Ivy on a study examining how muscles and capillaries in various bird species adapt based on season or migration distance. This experience not only deepened my understanding of comparative physiology but also gave me valuable insight into the entire process of crafting a research paper, from conception to publication.
Transverse section of a song sparrow pectoralis muscle that has been stained via a myosin ATPase method to differentiate fast oxidative glycolytic (FOG) and fast glycolytic (FG) muscle fibres.
How would you explain the main findings of your paper to a member of the public?
Our research looked at whether birds, like humans, can adjust their muscles based on the type of activity they do. For example, in humans, weightlifters and marathon runners train in very different ways, and as a result, they develop different types of muscles suited to their activities. We wanted to know if birds that migrate long distances or stay in one place also develop different types of muscle fibres to meet their physical demands.
Additionally, we explored whether birds adapt their muscles to seasonal changes. Some animals, for instance, have special muscle fibres that help them shiver and stay warm in colder climates. We studied how the seasons – like the transition from fall to winter – affect these muscle types and whether birds can adjust their muscles depending on how far they migrate or the temperatures they experience.
What do you enjoy most about research, and why?
I love the opportunity to deeply focus on a single subject and explore it through reading and analysing research papers. I also enjoy the problem-solving aspect of research – when faced with a challenge, finding creative ways to work around it feels incredibly rewarding. There are no fixed rules for how a problem must be solved; the only true limitation is the scope of your imagination. Sometimes, this means recognizing the need to ask for help. That's why I deeply value the collaborative nature of research – working with others allows us to combine ideas and perspectives, leading to innovative solutions that I might not have discovered on my own.
What's next for you?
I am currently in the first year of my master's programme at Western University, and although I am studying something completely different from my first publication, I will always have a sweet spot for the birds. My current research project focuses on non-invasive genetic testing techniques for pre-implantation embryos, in the hopes of improving implantation rates for patients undergoing fertility treatment. Looking ahead, I aspire to become an embryologist, blending my passion for working with animals and my interest in reproductive science. Perhaps one day, I'll find a way to combine these two passions into something meaningful and impactful.
Louisa Lewicki’s contact details: Western University, London, ON, Canada, N6A 3K7.
E-mail: [email protected]
