My name is Heather Bracken-Grissom and I am an Assistant Professor at Florida International University in the Marine Sciences Program, where I have a molecular evolution research lab and teach Invertebrate Zoology and Genetics. Broadly speaking, I am interested in the evolution of marine invertebrates with an emphasis on decapod crustaceans (crabs, lobsters and shrimp). This subject allows me to address issues related to their biodiversity, genetics, ecology, biogeography, development, and conservation. Much of my work has been conducted in the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, western Atlantic and eastern Pacific Ocean where I have had the opportunity to help organize and participate in several major research expeditions. My current role in the DEEPEND consortium will be to lead the crustacean and cephalopod genetic components. This will include documentation and examination of temporal and spatial genetic diversity in the Gulf of Mexico. My interest in decapod crustaceans blossomed early during my undergraduate years at UC Santa Barbara and through my graduate (University of Louisiana at Lafayette) and postdoctoral studies (Brigham Young University). When I am not in the lab, field, or office, I love participating in triathlons and almost anything outdoors related….Oh yes, I also thoroughly enjoy dining on my study subjects!
I am currently a second year Master of Marine Science student at Nova Southeastern University (NSU) under Dr. Rosanna Milligan. I am interested in using image-based analyses to help in determining where myctophid specimens may fall in their clade. My thesis project aims to utilize digital image analyses to offer insight into where an unidentified Diaphus specimen may fall within the genus. This is to be done with an examination of the lateral and orbital photophores of various myctophid specimens (mainly Diaphus spp.). Prior to NSU, I received my Bachelor of Science in Marine Science at the University of South Carolina. 
