TINY EARTH: ANTIBIOTIC DISCOVERY RESEARCH

MICROBIO 520

Connects the molecular underpinnings of life with corresponding planetary scale changes in geochemistry. Focuses on the dynamics between life and environment over planet Earth's history from a microbial and molecular perspective, including the origins of life, and emergence of essential metabolisms and their evolution across billions of years of planetary evolution. Discusses how innovations such as translation machinery and carbon and nitrogen fixation were impacted by significant changes in the environment. Examines how understanding the origins of life on Earth may allow for the recognition of life elsewhere in the universe by exploring, assessing, and discussing various signs of life and the processes that expands life to planetary scale.

PHMSCI 254

Collaborate on a research project from the conception of research questions through data analysis and the effective communication of results. Explore the biosynthesis of antibiotics and other small molecules by uncultured bacteria through the analysis of culture-independent DNA sequencing (metagenomics) data, learning about bioinformatics and genomics along the way. Make new discoveries of microbial species and biochemical pathways.

MICROBIO 150

Introduction to major questions related to the study of the microbiome. Acquire foundational research skills necessary for success as a microbiology or life sciences major. Engage with faculty and their cutting-edge research related to Microbiology. Explore department and campus resources and career options available in the field of microbiology.

MICROBIO 525

Explores the origins, early evolution, and most common traces left by our planet's form of microbial life. Discovery and interpretation of microbial biosignatures in the context of a simulated surface lander mission through travel to field sites. Introduction to microbial biosignatures as inferred through satellite and drone imagery interpretation, portable XRF elemental analysis, UV-VIS-IR spectrophotometry, body and trace fossil analysis and interpretation, and metagenome sequencing. Explore evidence and methods of detection of life on other planets.

MICROBIO 551

Conduct independent research in either a PI's laboratory or in small groups in microbiology teaching laboratories. Discuss progress of projects and research ethics, write a research proposal, and prepare and present a poster with final results for the department Poster Session. The in-class students use microbiological, molecular, and bioinformatic approaches to investigate the microbial ecology of environmental microbial communities. Research-lab students will progress toward goals established by the research mentor / PI.