Integrated biotechnology and computer labs for the Biochemistry program will be set up to train biology, biochemistry, chemistry and other majors in recombinant DNA and monoclonal antibody production and scale-up methods. Because these methods have become basic to many areas of science, should develop these skills as undergraduates for use in required internships and their own research. The number of biochemistry majors in this department has steadily increased over the past seven years; 80% of them going on to medical or graduate schools. DNA electrophoresis and blotting equipment, an inverted microscope, an ultracold freezer, a preparative centrifuge, a fermenter and two spectrophotometers permit DNA restriction mapping, cloning, and the production of proteins and monoclonal antibodies. A Biology Computing Center is being established where faculty developed software allows students to gain experience with experimental design, data collection and analysis, in addition to their lab experience. Two innovative features of this project are 1) the integration of the hands-on labs with computer simulations, allowing for practical lab experience with realistic experimental design and data analysis in a short period at low cost, and 2) the way in which labs prepare students for internships and research where people cooperate on long- term projects that integrate several methods. The grantee institution is matching the NSF award with an equal sum obtained from non-Federal sources.
