This award provides funds to establish a Research Experiences for Undergraduates Site in plant biotechnology at Cook College, the land-grant arm of Rutgers University. The program will focus on reduction of stress and enhancement of stress resistance in plants via cellular and molecular techniques. This emphasis parallels the principal research theme of the Center for Agricultural Molecular Biology (AGBIOTECH) at Cook College, which will coordinate and administer the program. Eight students (including women and minorities) will be recruited through professional networks in New Jersey and nearby states to participate in an intensive three-month summer program centered around student research projects and including weekly seminar and journal club meetings; Up to nine credits for the program may be earned through independent study options. The program will culminate in a one-day conference showcasing student presentation, to which appropriate graduate program directors and industry representatives from the region will be invited.
