This NSF MRI Award funds the acquisition of a capillary DNA sequencer to expand the research capabilities of faculty at Stevenson University (SU). SU faculty conduct research in the fields of developmental biology, genetics, gene expression and DNA structure and function. Topics of study include yeast metabolism, forensics, muscle development, stem cell differentiation, DNA repair mechanisms, and other topics. The capillary DNA sequencer helps faculty to significantly speed progress in their work by reducing reliance on outside service providers. Students directly benefit from having the sequencer because they gain experience in the application of research techniques in classes and independent projects. The results of the research and teaching efforts will be broadly disseminated through abstracts and peer reviewed publications, as well as by active participation of students and faculty at professional meetings.
Stevenson University (SU) is a private, career-focused liberal arts university located near Baltimore, MD. With NSF funding, the university purchased a state-of-the-art capillary DNA sequencer in order to enhance the research and instructional opportunities in its science programs, which include biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, environmental science and medical technology. The addition of this instrument to SU's science programs has enabled faculty to expand their research programs, offering additional fields of research and projects to interested students. With this instrument, SU students and faculty have made significant contributions to research fields such as genetics, developmental biology, forensic DNA analysis and microbial diversity. All of this research has involved undergraduate or master's level graduate students. As a result of their work, SU students have participated in professional presentations to the local community and at international meetings. In addition to enhancing research opportunities and progress, the addition of this instrument to the SU science programs has enabled faculty to incorporate authentic research using the most current technologies into the general science curriculum. Several courses have used this instrument to incorporate a project-based approach to instruction which requires students to work in research teams. This approach gives students the opportunity to learn and practice valuable communication and technical skills desired by STEM employers. As a result of the purchase of the capillary DNA sequencer, the educational experience of Stevenson University science students has been greatly enhanced. The instrument has enabled faculty to offer expanded research opportunities and to incorporate additional authentic research projects into other areas of the curriculum. These opportunities align very well with the School of the Sciences focus on inquiry-based learning and with the university's focus on practical, career-focused education.
