Author: Ginger Foulk

Conner Dicks will graduate this week with his M.S. in biological sciences. We asked him to reflect on his time here at Clemson in the Rice lab through a short Q & A.

Research?
My research in the Rice lab revolved around the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AHR). Specifically, characterizing tapinarof as a partial agonist against the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in fish models (both in-vitro and in-vivo). Additionally I developed a monoclonal antibody against zebrafish AHR2.

What’s next?
I am attending the Medical University of South Carolina to get my M.D.

What did you like the most about Clemson and what will you miss the most?
The interaction between peers and professors. (I’ll miss) fun conversations in the lab.

Advice for students?
Read (at least) a paper about your research everyday, even when you are first starting.

Memorable people?
Alyssa Whisel served as a great mentor in the lab.

Favorite local activities?
Hiking and visiting nearby towns.

Lessons learned?
I learned the importance in collaboration and transparency in research.

Memorable/proud moments?
Passing my defense and completing two degrees in five years!

Keiffer Williams will graduate this week with his Ph.D in biological sciences. We asked him to reflect on his time here at Clemson in the Price lab through a short Q & A.

Research?
My research at Clemson focused on understanding the evolution of tooth complexity in coral reef-associated fishes. Specifically, my dissertation developed a framework for conducting tooth complexity analyses that I then used to test for associations between diet and oral tooth complexity in fishes.

What’s next?
I will be starting a visiting assistant professor position at Berea College in August 2025.

What will you miss the most?
I’m going to miss all the friendships in the department and the broader Clemson community that I established during my time here. I will also miss all the local restaurants and coffee shops that I frequented, especially Bangkok Street Foods and Jitters Brewing Company in Central. I’ll also just miss the daily routine of graduate student life at Clemson.

Advice for students?
Dedicate time for your hobbies and don’t forget to stay in touch with your family and friends outside of Clemson. Prioritize your physical and mental health, and make sure to get enough sleep. Try not to do any school-related work for at least one day on the weekend. Graduate school is challenging and at times stressful, but you don’t need to be stressed out all the time from it. Make sure to do fun things on and take time off as needed.

Favorite local activities?
Taking daily walks through the Central frisbee golf course with my dog, fishing, hiking, and running on local trails. Also visiting and exploring all the local areas and cities around Clemson. I especially enjoyed visiting Greenville, especially downtown during the farmer’s market.

In May, we honored and recognized our outstanding undergraduate and graduate students at the Department of Biological Sciences’ 2025 Awards, Recognition and Appreciation Ceremony. We are so proud of all of our award winners. They all exemplify the very epitome of excellence — active in research, fully engaged in their learning, and giving back to their community.

Undergraduate award winners

Graduate student award winners