This REU Site program at San Jose State University, called Research by Undergraduates using Molecular Biology Applications (RUMBA), will focus its efforts on increasing the number of underrepresented minority students doing biological research in the Silicon Valley. Eight undergraduate students will be recruited to participate in a ten-week summer research program on molecular biology applications in research. Faculty with expertise in genetics, molecular evolution, molecular environmental microbiology, cell & molecular biology, and forensics will mentor students. In addition to a research experience, students participate in various activities including: (1) molecular biology techniques training, (2) a bi-weekly formal group research meeting, (3) an ethics seminar, (4) a culminating research symposium, and (5) presentation of posters at the SACNAS (Society for the Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science) National Conference. Students will be recruited from San Jose State University and other undergraduate institutions with high enrollment of underrepresented minority students (African American, Latino, Native American, Alaska Natives and Pacific Islander). San Jose State University (SJSU), the oldest public university in the state of California, is located in downtown San Jose and in the heart of Silicon Valley. SJSU's Biological Sciences Department occupies a central role in the training of biotechnology professionals in Silicon Valley. Students interested in participating in RUMBA should contact Dr. Julio G. Soto, Associate Professor, Biological Sciences Department, jsoto3@email.sjsu.edu. Application forms and deadlines can be found on our web site: www.sjsu.edu/depts/Biology/RUMBA/RUMBA.html.
