Undergraduate Research in Biological Diversity: Phylogenetic Approaches to Biological Questions

University Of Tulsa, Tulsa OK

Investigators

Abstract

The Undergraduate Research Experience in Phylogenetic Approaches to Biological Problems will allow undergraduates to participate for ten weeks during each of the summers of 2002-04. Research projects will span diverse areas of biology from phycology, molecular evolution, behavioral ecology and microbial diversity but will all have a common phylogenetic perspective. Ten highly qualified undergraduates will be selected for each summer's program from local and national institutions with attention paid to recruiting from underrepresented groups. The main objectives of this program are to 1) train students in basic methods of molecular biology and bioinformatics , 2) provide a mentored research experience using these techniques, 3) educate students about the diversity of problems to be understood with such techniques, and 4) raise awareness of research career opportunities. These objectives will be attained by a combination of tutorials in theory and techniques common to all of the projects of the program, mentored research by individual faculty, a seminar program delivered by visiting specialists, and career advising by local staff and former alumni of the program. The program will culminate in a day-long research symposium presented by the participants. The long-term goals of the experience are increased awareness of and competitiveness for careers in research and/or university-level teaching.