Laboratory of Primate Morphology seeks research applications
Submitted 17/12/2024 by Catalina I. Villamil
The Laboratory of Primate Morphology at the Caribbean Primate Research Center in San Juan, Puerto Rico invites applications from researchers to use the collections. We welcome applications for short- and long-term projects, and are happy to help researchers identify whether our collections would be suitable for their research questions. We also welcome inquiries from students interested in doing collections or research internships.
Our collections comprise over 4500 primate specimens, including mostly complete skeletons from:
• Over 3300 Indian-origin Macaca mulatta
• 93 non-mulatta Macaca
• 281 Erythrocebus patas
• 97 Saimiri sciureus
• 58 Cercopithecus aethiops, and
• 38 Cebus of various species
Our Macaca mulatta are derived from the Cayo Santiago Biological Field Station, and the collection itself spans over 70 years. The collection includes known-age individuals of all ages, from the fetal period to adulthood, as well as over 2200 individuals with known pedigree. The Cayo Santiago Biological Field Station is a broadly used resource, and the rhesus macaque population is under intense behavioral study.
In addition to the skeletal specimens, our collection includes hand and foot casts preserving dermatoglyphs from Macaca mulatta individuals of various ages. We also hold ~100 additional primate skeletal specimens on permanent loan, primarily of Alouatta.
Researchers should apply at least 90 days in advance of their proposed start date or grant deadline for projects that require specimen loans, destructive sampling, or genetic/pedigree data. All other projects may apply 45 days in advance. Use of the collection carries bench fees, but fee waivers can be requested.
Those interested in using the collections should visit the CPRC website at https://cprc.rcm.upr.edu/units/lpm and/or contact the Associate Director, Dr. Catalina I. Villamil at catalina.villamil@upr.edu for further information.
Catalina I. Villamil
catalina.villamil@upr.edu