A new ultracentrifuge, a density gradient former, and a gradient fractionator with ultraviolet monitor and strip chart recorder have been purchased and are being used to prepare, fractionate and analyze plasmic, viral, bacterial, and eukaryotic DNA, as well as to isolate chloroplast membrane systems, nuclei, chromatin, and other subcellular components. Ultracentrifugation is being incorporated as lecture- demonstrations in the introductory biology course, where concepts such as semi-conservative replication are discussed. Significant student contact with the instruments progress in stages through selected intermediate level courses, and culminate in senior honors research projects for some students. The university is contributing an amount equal to the award.
