Kirstie McTear is from Las Vegas, Nevada and is currently studying at Tuskegee University. McTear is working with Susan Lamont, an animal science professor, studying antibody production in chickens. McTear hopes pursue a career in exotic animal veterinary science and work with primarily large cat species after graduating in 2017.
What is the most interesting part of your research?
“Performing hands on procedures when we go to the chicken farm. I became certified by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee to collect blood from chickens for the completion of my lab experiment.”
What advice do you have for someone who has a passion for science?
“Apply to many different internships and get involved with as many research programs as you can to find which field best suit your interests. Don’t confine yourself to one area of research.”
What song do you think best summarizes your research?
“The chicken dance because I work with chickens constantly! Ha-ha!”
Who is your role model and why?
“My mother because she is a strong woman who always encourages me to do my best in everything that I do. She makes sure I know I can do anything I put my mind to.”
What do you like most about Ames?
“Campus town and the wildlife.”