Research Staff

Tucker conducts research in the areas of geomatics, geographic information systems (GIS), and spatial data science. He is an alumnus of FAU, where he completed a master's degree (M.S.) in Civil Engineering and a bachelor’s degree (B.S.) in Geomatics Engineering. His graduate research supported the development of watershed-based flood protection plans across Florida and resulted in a GIS-based flood risk model capable of generating accurate probabilistic inundation maps quickly while still detecting localized nuisance-destructive flood potential. Additionally, Tucker gained industry experience at an engineering consulting firm, where he collaborated with dynamic project teams to deliver geospatial data creation, editing, management, analysis, and map production as well as support for UAS/Drone and GPS field data collection efforts. He utilized GIS software and Python/R programming to prepare deliverables for various engineering projects related to transportation, water resources, environmental remediation, and energy and communications infrastructure.

Jamie Knaub is the Research Assistant for the Florida Atlantic University (FAU) High School Owls Imaging Lab. Jamie is responsible for (1) maintaining imaging equipment and software, (2) instructing students and collaborators on how to use the equipment, and (3) ensuring the lab is in compliance with health and safety standards. Jamie received her bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Marine Biology from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and conducted research on cetacean (whales, dolphins, and porpoises) parasites. After graduating, Jamie gained field experience working for marine mammal stranding programs in North Carolina, Alaska, and Florida before starting graduate school at Florida Atlantic University (FAU). Jamie is currently a Ph.D. candidate in the Integrative Biology Program at FAU with a master's degree (M.S.) in Biology. Her doctoral dissertation research focuses on examining marine animal skeletons. Jamie uses the micro-CT scanner in the Owls Imaging Lab to investigate 3D microstructure in vertebrae from fast-swimming sharks and a variety of cetacean species.

Dr. Jennifer Krill is a neuroscientist and educator specializing in neuroimaging, neurophysiology, and the use of innovative teaching techniques to inspire the next generation of researchers. As an Assistant Professor of Neurophysiology at FAU Lab Schools, Dr. Krill has developed a range of cutting-edge Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs). These programs integrate real-world research into education, enabling high school students to explore neurophysiology, Drosophila genetics, and microscopy. 

In her role at FAU, Dr. Krill prioritizes accessibility and innovation in education. In collaboration with the College of Science and FAU’s Center for Online and Continuing Education, Dr. Krill has created open educational resources to reduce costs for students and introduced virtual reality and artificial intelligence to enhance STEM learning. 

With a Ph.D. in Integrative Biology and Neuroscience from FAU, Dr. Krill’s research has focused on understanding neuroprotection during acute stress, particularly using Drosophila melanogaster, the fruit fly, as a model organism to investigate potential therapeutics to prevent brain damage during acute stress incidents such as hyperthermia and stroke. Her work employs advanced techniques, including calcium imaging, electrophysiology, and confocal microscopy, to uncover cellular mechanisms that protect brain function.  

Dr. Tricia L. Meredith is the Director of Research for Florida Atlantic Laboratory Schools. She is also an Assistant Research Professor in the College of Education at FAU.

In partnership with her colleagues, Dr. Meredith has developed and oversees four main research initiatives including (1) the FAUHS Research Program, which guides dual-enrolled students in undergraduate research, (2) the Marcus Research and Innovation Center, which serves as a hub to facilitate research collaboration, education, and mentorship, (3) the Comprehensive Educator Research Program, which supports K-12 teachers in conducting action research and (4) the OPK12 Research Committee, which mediates all research collaborations with the school. As a biologist, Dr. Meredith conducts research on sharks and their sense of smell, in addition to her research on dual enrollment, undergraduate research, and STEM education.  She has presented at both biology and education conferences and published in both disciplines as well. Her focus, which draws these different interests together, lies in hands-on, project-based, research training and the impact of mentorship.

Dr. Lauren Eve Simonitis is the Research and Biological Imaging Specialist for Florida Atlantic University’s on-site lab school, A.D. Henderson University School and FAU High School. Dr. Simonitis received a dual B.S. in Marine Science and Biology from the University of Miami and a Ph.D. in Marine Biology from Texas A&M University. She was formally a National Science Foundation Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Biology at both Florida Atlantic University and the University of Washington.

In partnership with her colleagues, Dr. Simonitis manages the Marcus Research and Innovation Center, which serves as a research center facilitating research collaboration, education, and mentorship. Additionally, Dr. Simonitis oversees Curriculum Integration, infusing hands-on, cutting edge laboratory experiences into the science curriculum of ADHUS and FAUHS students. As a sensory biologist, Dr. Simonitis is interested in how animals use their sensory systems to understand their environment and navigate predator prey relationships. From the prey perspective, she focuses on how animals use ink as a chemically mediated antipredator defense. Dr. Simonitis also studies the sensory systems of a common ocean predator- sharks- employing a suite of biovisualization techniques including histology, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and computed tomography (CT) scanning.

Dr. Amy Tift is the instructor for the 9th grade Exploring Research and Intro to Psychology courses at FAU High School. She is also affiliate faculty in the College of Education, in the department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology. Dr. Tift attended The Ohio State University where she worked in two cognitive developmental psychology labs while completing her bachelor's degree. Dr. Tift then attended FAU to complete her Master's and Ph.D. in developmental psychology. Her research focused on infant multisensory perceptual development and how visual attention moderates the development of speech and language. 

At FAU High School, Dr. Tift has conducted research on note-taking modalities and their impact on student preparedness and organization strategies as well as on the benefits of an after-school arts club on student stress levels and feelings of belonging. Dr. Tift coordinates the Summer Bridge Program for incoming students and has conducted program evaluation research on the Bridge Program. In addition, Dr. Tift is the advisor for the FAU High School chapter of the National Honor Society and Studio Sessions. Outside of school, Dr. Tift is a mom to one little girl and a yorkie. She enjoys watercolor painting, travel, cooking, and scuba diving.