---
title: Tipping the Scales
date: 2019-12-05T17:00:00-05:00
author: University of Maryland
canonical_url: "https://today.umd.edu/tipping-scales-1a5b5898-06d9-4245-918c-a2e112dff5c8"
section: Articles
---
# Tipping the Scales

*December 5, 2019* — by [Maryland Today Staff](/author/maryland-today-staff)


> Undergrad Specializes in Reptilian Discovery

[Tipping the Scales](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C63ThRJxn40)



On a trip to the Central Park Zoo, Justin Lee ’20 spied the snakes slithering behind the glass and was entranced. By 4, the Discovery Network’s reptile shows had become must-see TV. And at 7, he couldn’t just pronounce “herpetologist”—he was declaring his career plans to study reptiles and amphibians.

Lee is too modest to claim that title just yet, but he’s earned it. By the time he graduates in May, he’ll have published at least 13 scientific journal articles, including eight as the first author—a striking tally for someone yet to earn a degree.

 


**Topics:** [Research](https://today.umd.edu/tags/research)


**Tags:** [Biology](https://today.umd.edu/topic/biology)


**Units:** [College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences](https://today.umd.edu/topic/college-computer-mathematical-and-natural-sciences)