A research course is being taught jointly by members of the Biology and Chemistry Departments, that introduces students to the theoretical implications and practical applications of various techniques at the interface of chemistry, biochemistry and molecular biology. This is particularly important in light of the current and continued emphasis on biotechnology. A work station approach, utilizing spectrophotometric, chromatographic and electrophoretic equipment in an inter-related fashion is the primary focus of the course. Students are being required to isolate, purify and characterize specific proteins and nucleic acids using the equipment. The students are being exposed to a variety of scientific perspectives and techniques as they are actually being carried out in laboratories. The students are being given the opportunity and the training necessary to apply these techniques to the problems encountered in their own research endeavors.
