Tait Algayer

What’s the work that you do?

Generally, I’m interested in genomic adaptations to extreme environments. More specifically, I study evolutionary genomics of antifreeze proteins in Zoarcid fishes. My group uses computational methods to sequence and assemble genomes and transcriptomes of Arctic and Antarctic zoarcids to gain insight on how gene copy number, tandem repeat number, and isoform interactions influence thermal hysteresis activity of antifreeze proteins. The broader goal of this work is to identify molecular pathways underlying adaptation to polar environments.

What keeps you going?

My supportive lab group keeps me going and inspires me to continue learning new computation skills (which I sometimes struggle with). Besides my coworkers, I love the work that I do because I get to learn about the ‘coolest’ organisms and explore the underlying mechanisms that allow them to thrive in such harsh environments. I also love the ugly looking fishes that I work with, they really bring a smile to my face.

What’s your message to the world?

Stay curious! Never forget what got you interested in science in the first place. For me, it was my love of the ocean and the fascinating creatures that live in it.