VIP: Molecular Microbiology
What is the overarching goal of this project?
The long-term goal of this project is to understand how
microorganisms acquire novel resistance mechanisms to antimicrobials. This
knowledge will be beneficial in improving detection assays for the above mechanisms in
microbial habitats. Our current focus is to detect selected antibiotic resistance genes in
soil and watersheds of Southeastern Idaho using molecular and bioinformatic tools.
What experience will students gain?
Hands-on experience in common molecular biology and
bioinformatic tools; field sampling methods for microbiology; skills in oral and written
scientific communication, such as preparing and presenting scientific posters;
development of knowledge and critical thinking skills by reading and discussing primary
research literature; building ethics of collaboration by working together in a team.
VIP Faculty Lead information
"Genomic DNA
extraction from environmental materials, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), agarose gel
electrophoresis, alignment of DNA sequences, construction of phylogenetic trees"
Registration Process
By instructor approval only