2008 Summer Internships

May 24 to July  31

Microorganisms comprise the dominant cellular life forms on Earth. From the human perspective, the biological activities of microbes play vital roles in agriculture, the environment, biotechnology, bioenergy production, and pathogenesis. Research in microbiology has made critical contributions to the harnessing of the metabolic power of microorganisms. Microbiology research also serves a more basic role by revealing the fundamental principles of biology as well as humbling us regarding the limits of our knowledge regarding the diversity, physiology, and metabolic potential of single cell life forms.

To address the need for attracting talented researchers to the field of microbiology and to promote the growth of a diverse and vibrant microbiology research community, the University of Florida Microbiology and Cell Science (UF MCS) Department proposes to provide ten 10-week undergraduate research internships at the UF campus. This project is supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) as a Research Education experience for Undergraduates (REU). The objectives are: (i) to provide a rich environment for undergraduates to explore cutting-edge microbiology research opportunities, (ii) to stimulate the recruitment of promising research-oriented microbiology students by forming a network of minority-serving institutions (primarily undergraduate) with universities having strong microbiology graduate programs, and (iii) to continually strengthen the REU program in response to participant evaluations and career tracking outcomes. Research areas include Prokaryotic Physiology, Metabolism, Genetics, Host-Microbe Interactions, and Microbial Ecology. Research approaches include, but are not limited to, bioinformatics, genomics, proteomics, genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, molecular ecology, microscopy, and immunological assays. While actively engaging in research, UF MCS-REU participants will have the opportunity to gain facility in fundamental laboratory techniques, critical thinking skills, and expertise in oral and written communication. Students will also participate in cohort interactions through discussion-formatted seminars in ethics and bioinformatics, industry field trips, and organized social functions that provide exposure to topics in career and professional development, GRE preparation, and graduate school applications.

 

 

 

 

 

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