An undergraduate research program has been established involving about one-half of the college's graduates each year. This program was developed after thorough review and revision of the curriculum. To implement the program and perform research on a variety of topics of interest, the department will purchase a research quality light microscope for study of cells, tissues, plankton, and chromosomes, a horizontal laminar flow hood and inverted microscope for cell and tissue culture studies, a low temperature freezer for storage of a variety of materials used in cell, tissue, and biochemical studies, and a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system for analysis of red oak flavonoids and bacterial toxins. The equipment will be housed in the research lab to be used by undergraduates. The department will now be able to offer high-quality research experience, a key ingredient in undergraduate science education. The college will provide 50% matching funds.
