Undergraduate students learn modern molecular techniques by exploring the luxA gene. Techniques employed include density gradient separations, construction of a genomic library, subcloning, and characterization and sequencing. Equipment includes: an ultracentrifuge and sequencing gel systems. Other courses employing elements of these techniques and utilizing the equipment include microbiology, biochemistry, instrumental analysis, developmental biology, animal physiology and both the NSF Summer Enrichment Program for high school teachers and a fall workshop for talented high school juniors.
