Many students at LSU may not even know that the Museum of Natural Science exists, let alone how much work has come out of the facility. In 2012, scientists from the museum discovered a species of frog that was officially declared the smallest vertebrae in the world. Recently, they started a new course of DNA sequencing focused on very rare and extinct animals.  
Tucked away in the basement of Foster Hall, Dr. Chris Austin and his staff have been working diligently to introduce new animals into the circle of life. The research is being funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation. This grant allows Austin to travel to places such as New Guinea to conduct his research.
The new sequencing techniques developed by Austin allow smaller sample sizes to be used. Due to this breakthrough, rare and extinct animals can now be sequenced.
“A lot of these rarer animals have never had their DNA sequenced,” Austin said. “With this new technology that is now possible.”
Sequencing this DNA has allowed Austin to paint a clearer picture of the circle of life.
DNA sequencing helps researches identify what may have killed off a species. In some cases, it can even be used to develop anti-venoms. These new sequencing methods are being used to help animals and humans alike.
Before the animals can be sequenced, they must be preserved. “Preserving can take the better part of a day, depending on the size of the animal,” said Austin. Once the animals are preserved, they can then be sent to the lab to begin the sequencing process.   
Austin focuses his attention on reptiles and amphibians. He has recently sequenced the DNA of snakes that were over a hundred years old. “The ultimate goal would be to resurrect these animals someday,” exclaimed Austin.
The basement of Foster Hall is crowded with jars containing the preserved remains of countless animals. Each jar contains a unique animal with its own story and history. Some of the animals have already been sequenced, while others are awaiting sequencing.
Each animal tells us a little more about where we came from and hopefully even a little about where we are going. For Austin and his team each day brings a new challenge, which is one of his favorite parts of the job.