As an undergraduate research assistant at the University of Florida’s Davie Extension, she is studying and mapping the abundance of Polynucleobacter Bacteria in the Everglades. Tagging bacteria using the Fluorescent in situ hybridization technique, aka FISH, to distinguish one species from the other via fluorescence microscopy for cell counts. These bacteria are responsible for decomposing dead plant matter in the everglades water column. She also has started culturing SAR 11 Bacteria, possibly the most abundant organism on our planet. SAR 11 are tiny picky eaters that are found everywhere in the ocean. Much is not known about each of these keystone species. Their abundance can provide great insight into the health of our oceans and how they are adapting to higher temps, great acidity, and salinity.

She has found her calling helping others to understand science while doing fieldwork and lab work to improve how our civilization runs in unity with this fascinating world. After completing her Bachelor’s Degree, Ms. Brache plan’s on continuing to pursue a Masters in Professional Science or Doctoral program to continue working in research. 

Before pursuing science, Diane was a fashion designer for 12 years. Handmaking over 3000 custom wedding and bridesmaids dresses online via Miss Brache on Etsy. Her design work has been featured on Martha Stewart Weddings, Miami New Times, Bust Magazine, Sports Illustrated Magazine, and a variety of other publications. She would spend all her time listing to scientific podcasts and driving her friend’s crazy talking about genetics and chemistry. Finally, realizing that smart is not something you are; it is something you become, she re-enrolled in school to help solve more significant problems than poorly fitting party dresses.