The Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Cincinnati has initiated a major effort to increase its research in molecular biology. The department has been awarded an academic challenge grant from the state of Ohio to hire new faculty members in the areas of plant molecular biology, molecular evolution and molecular parasitology. A fourth new faculty member in molecular genetics is funded by the University of Cincinnati. Three of these faculty members are now at the University of Cincinnati initiating their research projects. The objective of this proposal is to set up a departmental facility for DNA synthesis, sequencing and analysis to enhance the research of the new faculty and to introduce DNA sequencing and analysis to graduate students and faculty who have not previously used these techniques. The requested funds will enable the department to acquire an oligonucleotide synthesizer, ultracentrifuge rotors and a computer system for DNA sequence analysis. The University of Cincinnati will provide funding for DNA sequencing gel apparatuses, power supplies and other small equipment for DNA sequencing as well as a technician to operate and maintain the equipment. This facility will allow all members of the department access to current DNA sequencing technology.
