VIP: Molecular Microbiology
What is the overarching goal of this project?
The long-term goal of this project is to understand how microorganisms acquire novel resistance mechanisms to antimicrobials. This knowledge will be beneficial in improving detection assays for the above mechanisms in microbial habitats. Our current focus is to detect selected antibiotic resistance genes in soil and watersheds of Southeastern Idaho using molecular and bioinformatic tools.
What experience will students gain?
Hands-on experience in common molecular biology and bioinformatic tools; field sampling methods for microbiology; skills in oral and written scientific communication, such as preparing and presenting scientific posters; development of knowledge and critical thinking skills by reading and discussing primary research literature; building ethics of collaboration by working together in a team.
Specific skills: Genomic DNA extraction from environmental materials, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), agarose gel electrophoresis, alignment of DNA sequences, construction of phylogenetic trees
VIP Faculty Lead information
Registration Process
By instructor approval only