This project is enabling the department to build a strong program in genetics - one that incorporates modern theory and methods. Hands on investigative laboratories are being designed and offered to first and second year biology majors; many of whom are planning to be teachers. Laboratory exercises include computer simulations of Mendelian crosses of peas and Drosophila, sex-linkage and mapping through 3-factor linkage analysis and chi-square tests, cytological preparation and microscopic examination of giant salivary chromosomes. Identification of chromosomal mutations and haploid linkage analysis complete the transmission genetics labs. Students also isolate DNA, transform bacteria with plasmids, use restriction enzymes to construct standard curves, map restriction sites, probe Southern blots, amplify human DNA using the polymerase chain reaction, sequence DNA, align DNA sequences on computer, and apply allozyme electrophoresis to a problem in population genetics.
