In February, the Walla Walla University Department of Biological Sciences invited Bill Hayes, WWU alum and professor at Loma Linda University, to present “The Kiss of Death: Venom Composition Variation and Why It Matters,” which focused on venomous animals that deliver their toxins through a wound created by a bite, sting, or puncture. Hayes' presentation was part of the biology department’s quarterly colloquium series.
Hayes spoke most specifically about rattlesnakes and their incredible chemical weaponry. Mirana Ramorasata, a junior pre-med biology major, went to the colloquium because of the presentation's applications to her future career plans as a doctor. She said Hayes’ expertise was an especially helpful insight for understanding clinical experiments geared towards snake venom: Hayes talked about the importance of the quantity and composition of the injected venom and the medical applications of venoms, often being utilized in diagnostic tools, antivenoms, and even cancer treatments.
Aurora Coleman, a senior biology major, also attended this colloquium, and she said, “getting exposure to the type of research Hayes works on and its real-world applications was eye opening.” Hearing from Hayes also served as a reminder for her of the similar themes across all research such as adaptation, biochemistry, biodiversity, and others.
Every quarter, the biology department invites several scientists to share their research and expertise with students. Jim Nestler, professor of biology at WWU, organized the colloquium, and he said the department hosts scientists who actively participate in biological research in a variety of disciplines including molecular, marine, medical, lab-based, field-based, microbiology, and more. Nestler said, “Dr. Hayes' research involves several biological disciplines, so we were excited that he was able to speak with our students… In addition, rattlesnakes are cool!”
Since many of the university’s biology students are exploring their future career options, including the possibility of research, it is important for them to be aware of the wide variety of opportunities available. The biology department is especially interested in showing students possible career paths through the guidance of former students, showing what WWU alums have gone on to do with their biology degrees.
To learn more about the WWU Department of Biological Sciences and any upcoming colloquium events, visit wallawalla.edu/biology.
Posted March 11, 2025.
