The Importance of Research in the Undergraduate Curriculum: Explorations in Genomics

• Published in: The FASEB journal 2007-04, Vol.21 (5), p.A42-A42
• Main Authors: Elgin, Sarah C. R., Mardis, Elaine R., Buhler, Jeremy, Trosset, Carol S., Lopatto, David E.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0892-6638; 1530-6860
• DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.21.5.A42-a

Genome sequencing technology opens up new opportunities to learn how genomes are organized, a critical parameter in the regulation of gene expression, and creates new opportunities for student‐scientist research partnerships. Eukaryotic genomes can have large amounts of repetitious DNA that must be silenced by heterochromatin packaging to avoid catastrophe. Students in Bio 4342, Research Explorations in Genomics, are investigating the dot chromosomes of different Drosophila species; these regions have normal gene density, but high levels of repetitious sequences, and are packaged as heterochromatin in some species. Students form a research team to finish, annotate and analyze the DNA. First findings suggest that specific classes of repetitious DNA are involved in packaging decisions (Slawson et al 2006, Genome Biology 7: R15). Undergraduate research experiences generate a spectrum of intellectual and social gains; Bio 4342 students report similar gains. They are enthusiastic, and particularly like the practice in reasoning from evidence to defend their conclusions. The project is being expanded through participation of students and faculty at other colleges and universities. As sequencing becomes cheaper, and the need for finishing and annotation increases (activities requiring human input that students can provide), the time is right for a student‐scientist partnership in genomics. Funded by HHMI.