My name is Manuel Hernandez, and I am originally from Los Angeles. I began my academic journey with a growing interest in animal biology and research. This interest brought me to the Blumstein and Yeh Labs at UCLA in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. 

In the Blumstein Lab, I conducted field research on the flight initiation distance of birds in urban and non-urban environments to better understand their responses to perceived threats. Additionally, my work in the Yeh Lab focused on microbial research, where I studied antibiotic resistance in bacteria exposed to prior heat stress. Together, these experiences not only strengthened my interest in animal biology but also sparked a broader interest in the applications of research to real-world challenges. 

Over time, my interests have become more focused on how animal research can contribute to more sustainable and resilient food systems. I am currently conducting research in the Vahmani Lab, where I investigate the effects of trans-10 fatty acids on lipogenesis and fat composition in bovine cells. This work directly impacts the nutrition and palatability of meat in traditional livestock production and emerging cultivated meat technologies. Together with conventional animal agriculture, this research offers the opportunity to develop food systems that can sustainably nourish a growing population and meet future global needs.