Scripps Student Spotlight: Rhowan Ho
Master's student researches clone reproduction in parasitic flatworms
Rhowan Ho is a first-year master's student in marine biology with a focus on parasitology and science communication at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego. He grew up on Penang Island, Malaysia, and received his bachelor's degree in molecular and cell biology at UC San Diego. At Scripps Oceanography, Ho is advised by professor Ryan Hechinger and researches clone reproduction in parasitic flatworms in the Hechinger Lab.
explorations now (en): Why did you choose to attend Scripps?
Rhowan Ho (RH): I watched Scripps researchers on National Geographic as a kid and I've always wanted to be a part of their work. Not to mention, Scripps has a great marine research program and the most gorgeous seaside campus in California — if not the country.
en: What are you researching at Scripps?
RH: I'm researching clone reproduction in parasitic flatworms (trematodes) — some of which infect humans. They have clone soldiers and reproductive castes, similar to how bees have division of labor in the form of workers, drones and queens. I want to know if soldiers can metamorphose, or transform, into reproductives, or if new reproductives are made "from scratch." I do this by searching inside soldiers for embryo producing reproductive organs. It would teach us about the rates of social-role-shifting in these uniquely caste-plastic organisms.
en: How did you become interested in science and your field of study?
RH: I grew up on an island, so tasting seafood and gazing at marine life were my two biggest joys. I was also fascinated with parasites — literal body snatchers resembling aliens. I found my way to Professor Ryan Hechinger's parasitology lab after asking around about parasite research at Scripps. I've been cracking open snails and parasite hunting since then.
en: What’s life like as a Scripps student? Describe a typical day.
RH: I come into the lab at 9 a.m. to dissect snails and prepare the parasites. At 12 p.m., I head to one of Scripps' seminars presented by visiting scholars (with free cookies and coffee). After that, I return to the lab — with a short break to enjoy the sunset and watch surfers do tricks — before continuing my work until night.
en: What’s the most exciting thing about your work (in the field or in the lab)?
RH: I'm a big fan of horror, and parasites are the epitome of real-world lovecraftian monsters. There's some macabre allure in dissecting a snail only to find it stuffed full of tiny wriggling worms — some of which contain tinier worms like a messed up Russian nesting doll. Though they sound freaky, they can be quite beautiful when stained red, and you come to appreciate the creativity of their anatomy and reproductive strategies over time. Plus, trematodes create armies of clone soldiers, which is awesome.
en: Are there any role models or mentors who have helped you along the way?
RH: My advisor, Ryan Hechinger, and a visiting scholar to the lab, Sussie Dalvin, provided the guidance and support I needed to really adjust to master’s-level research. It's quite different from the undergraduate world and the transition would have been much more difficult without them. I'll say that my research discipline, meticulousness and time organization have improved a lot since I was an undergraduate. I'd also like to thank my friends for being understanding of my packed schedule and listening to my marine biology ramblings.
en: What are some of the challenges you face as a student?
RH: Managing time between lab work, classes and social life can be challenging. You never have as much time as you hope to pursue other interests, be it academic, professional or social, which makes planning and organization all the more important.
en: What are your plans post-Scripps?
RH: I want to work in science communication as a writer and documentary/film/video producer, David Attenborough style! I believe being the bridge between scientists and the public is incredibly important, especially in a time of increasing political polarization and mistrust in science. Down the line, I'd like to return to Malaysia and build up the scientific community there.
You can find Ho on Instagram and YouTube, where he hosts the series “Explainer?! I Hardly Know Her.”
About Scripps Oceanography
Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego is one of the world’s most important centers for global earth science research and education. In its second century of discovery, Scripps scientists work to understand and protect the planet, and investigate our oceans, Earth, and atmosphere to find solutions to our greatest environmental challenges. Scripps offers unparalleled education and training for the next generation of scientific and environmental leaders through its undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs. The institution also operates a fleet of four oceanographic research vessels, and is home to Birch Aquarium at Scripps, the public exploration center that welcomes 500,000 visitors each year.
About UC San Diego
At the University of California San Diego, we embrace a culture of exploration and experimentation. Established in 1960, UC San Diego has been shaped by exceptional scholars who aren’t afraid to look deeper, challenge expectations and redefine conventional wisdom. As one of the top 15 research universities in the world, we are driving innovation and change to advance society, propel economic growth and make our world a better place. Learn more at ucsd.edu.