One of my goals as an educator is to develop experiential learning opportunities for undergraduate students. As such, I am working to develop a CURE using the orchid fungal microbiome as a research model. I have received internal funding to develop this program and am now in the second iteration. Why orchid fungal microbiome? My research focus examines plant resiliency and/or susceptibility under climate change and how changes in the microbiome either reflect susceptibility or facilitate resiliency. With an abundance of orchid species in Virginia (and in the US) as well as a variety of habitats, the potential to explore this relationship is large and will provide students with experiences for years. Having a model system allows for a unified approach that is adaptable to a class setting, but also allows students flexibility to design their own projects. The research focus also provides experience with organismal field work as well as molecular lab work. Goals: Personal goal: to build a broad picture of orchid fungal dynamics in a range of species across a range of habitats. Student-centered goals: Provide opportunities for research to students who might not be able to access such opportunities. Provide experience with molecular techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, electrophoresis, and cloning. Expose students to metagenomics approaches coupled with bioinformatics and statistical analysis. Emphasize learning objectives presented in Genetics course. Provide students space to develop their own ideas and think about new directions for research.
Structure: Students are encouraged to meet several times a week as their schedule permits. I work with the students to facilitate hands-on-learning in different techniques. This builds confidence so students can develop independence. Students have the option and are encouraged to return as mentors in future classes, which provides leadership and builds community. Ideally, I would have a pedagogy focused post-doc to help facilitate engagement and learning on a more flexible schedule.
If anyone is interested in collaborating, please reach out to me.
Current Students: Millicent Opoku and Kelahni Smith Former Students: Matilda Cashman