This project, upgrading capabilities of a Core DNA Analysis Facility, builds on a successful NSF CCLI award. The acquisition of a capillary based genetic analyzer and a real-time PCR detection system is proposed to complete investigations in a variety of fields ranging from studies of gene regulation, to the mentoring and modeling of disease spread, to molecular systematics, and conservation genetics. Ten of the on-going projects use DNA sequencing for various purposes, including molecular systematics, mapping of phenotypic characters, examination of population structure, understanding biogeography, and identification and characterization of specific genes. Of four genotyping projects, three use analysis of highly variable microsatellites for fine scale population analyses, analyses of kinship (genetic fingerprinting), or mutation detection. One genotyping project uses AFLP analysis to conduct genome-wide sampling for use in GIS modeling that includes a genotypic "landscape." Two projects rely simply on genotype detection or mutation detection by analysis of the presence/absence or condition of PCR products. In line with the mission to foster combined research/education, this work carries a good success story.
The project, accommodating the increased demand for usage of the facility by students and faculty, not only enhances faculty research programs, but also involves research training in an undergraduate institution. Moreover, teacher training is expected to impact on K-12 education.
