Field of Study:
Microbiology
Department:
Microbiology
Rank of Student:
Sophomore to Junior
Desired Majors:
Microbiology, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Molecular Genetics
Hours per Week:
1
Compensation Type:
Academic Credit
Application Deadline:
Contact:
schwieters.2@osu.edu
Private
Public
Project Description
The ability of bacteria to grow is greatly enhanced by respiration. While humans and other mammals respire solely with oxygen, bacteria can breathe on other compounds such as those containing nitrogen (denitrification). This behavior is not only essential for maintaining the Earth’s nitrogen cycle but can also be used by bacterial pathogens to sustain infection. We are interested in understanding how the bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa regulates denitrification and how this process might be coordinated with the expression of virulence factors during infections.
When first beginning in the lab, the prospective student will focus on developing basic lab skills. After developing these skills, students will learn fundamental biological techniques such as PCR, growth curves assays, and genetic manipulation. Using these skills, the student will help investigate the factors that control the expression of denitrification. This opportunity is great for a student interested in a future career in the biological or biomedical sciences.
When first beginning in the lab, the prospective student will focus on developing basic lab skills. After developing these skills, students will learn fundamental biological techniques such as PCR, growth curves assays, and genetic manipulation. Using these skills, the student will help investigate the factors that control the expression of denitrification. This opportunity is great for a student interested in a future career in the biological or biomedical sciences.
Required Applicant Information
Please provide a short resume with classes previously and currently being taken as well as any previous laboratory experience, if applicable.
Include a short paragraph about your scientific, academic, and/or professional interests
Include a short paragraph about your scientific, academic, and/or professional interests
Required or Desired Skills
Attention to detail
No experience working in a lab with microorganisms is necessary but is beneficial
Taken introductory biology and chemistry courses
No experience working in a lab with microorganisms is necessary but is beneficial
Taken introductory biology and chemistry courses
Faculty Member Lead:
Karna Gowda
Starting Semester:
Autumn,
Spring,
Summer
Length of Project (in semesters):
4