A curriculum in cellular and molecular biology has been under development in this department for two years. The purpose is to provide a program which affords an option in cellular and molecular biology to departmental majors, supports other intra- and inter- departmental programs, and provides a background for students interested in doing undergraduate research in these areas. Recent developments include approval of an introductory course in molecular biology for sophomore students and the restructuring of existing courses. The tabletop ultracentrifuge provided through this award was needed to carry out laboratory exercises essential to the program, support student research projects and to provide practical experiences that reinforce pedagogical material covered in lectures. The tabletop model not only is suitable for all these uses, it also is less expensive to purchase and maintain, requires lower expenditures for materials, and is both easy and safe to use. The grantee institution is matching the NSF award with an equal sum obtained from non-Federal sources.
