Irvin Arroyo-Torres
Ph.D. Student
Year entered program: 2023
Department: Biology
Mentor: Thomas Turner, Ph.D.
Interests: Biology with a concentration in Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal BiologyFrom an early age, Irvin Arroyo-Torres was fascinated by the wonders of the natural world. Whether watching David Attenborough's documentaries, frequenting Albuquerque's BioPark, or visiting the New Mexico Museum of Natural History, he was constantly fueled by a curiosity for understanding nature. This childhood fascination served as a cornerstone for his academic journey.
Arroyo-Torres graduated from College & Career High School while securing an Associate of Applied Science in Integrated Studies from Central New Mexico Community College, thanks to dual-credit courses. Upon entering the University of New Mexico (UNM), Arroyo-Torres was somewhat uncertain about his career path but knew it would be rooted in Biology. A formative course in General Vertebrate Zoology with Dr. Steven Poe crystallized his resolve to delve into the staggering diversity of life. This passion led to his first research experience, assisting in studies on anole lizards under Dr. Poe.
During his undergraduate years at UNM, Arroyo-Torres actively participated in the Poe Lab and the Amphibian & Reptile Biodiversity Lab. He was involved in diverse research initiatives ranging from anole lizard behavior to amphibian genetic diversity. As a capstone to his studies, he spearheaded a research project focused on Western Diamond-Backed Rattlesnakes, utilizing resources from the Museum of Southwestern Biology at UNM under the guidance of Dr. Lisa Barrow.
After earning his Bachelor's in Biology, Arroyo-Torres is embarking on graduate research studying the impact of invasive fish species on the parasite communities within garter snakes under the mentorship of Professor Thomas Turner.
Department: Biology
Mentor: Thomas Turner, Ph.D.
Interests: Biology with a concentration in Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology
Bio
Arroyo-Torres graduated from College & Career High School while securing an Associate of Applied Science in Integrated Studies from Central New Mexico Community College, thanks to dual-credit courses. Upon entering the University of New Mexico (UNM), Arroyo-Torres was somewhat uncertain about his career path but knew it would be rooted in Biology. A formative course in General Vertebrate Zoology with Dr. Steven Poe crystallized his resolve to delve into the staggering diversity of life. This passion led to his first research experience, assisting in studies on anole lizards under Dr. Poe.
During his undergraduate years at UNM, Arroyo-Torres actively participated in the Poe Lab and the Amphibian & Reptile Biodiversity Lab. He was involved in diverse research initiatives ranging from anole lizard behavior to amphibian genetic diversity. As a capstone to his studies, he spearheaded a research project focused on Western Diamond-Backed Rattlesnakes, utilizing resources from the Museum of Southwestern Biology at UNM under the guidance of Dr. Lisa Barrow.
After earning his Bachelor's in Biology, Arroyo-Torres is embarking on graduate research studying the impact of invasive fish species on the parasite communities within garter snakes under the mentorship of Professor Thomas Turner.
