Undergraduate Research

Research in the Weiler Laboratory

Undergraduate Students Invited!

Undergraduate students have the potential to make a
significant research contribution. We are always looking for good students
who are excited to be a part of our research program.

HOW UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH WORKS

Undergraduate students typically engage in research for course credit. Two options exist: BIOL 386 and BIOL 486. Successful completion of BIOL 486 leads to graduation with honors. BIOL 486 is open to juniors and seniors, and requires a 3-semester minimum committment. It begins with the writing of a research proposal and culminates in a presentation and oral defense of a written thesis. The thesis requirement of the Honors College can be satisfied by three semesters of BIOL 486. The writing of a more abbreviated research thesis is required prior to completion of each semester of enrollment in BIOL 386. Enrollment in either BIOL 386 or BIOL 486 requires the signed consent of the research advisor. Speak with a faculty member for more details on the requirements.

Undergraduate students who enroll in BIOL 386 or BIOL 486 in the Weiler lab typically take 3 credits per semester. One credit is considered the equivalent of 3 to 4 hours of research per week. Note that the summer semester differs due to its abbreviated length. However, the time required will vary from week to week depending upon the needs of the experiment. At least in my laboratory, we do not keep count. Rather, the schedule of experiments is designed to approximate a 9 to 12 hour work week.

Gaining competence in the molecular and genetic techniques performed in the Weiler lab (and several other labs in the department) takes an extended period of effort. Consequently, a three semester (minimum) commitment to a research project is required in order to join the Weiler lab. Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis for students who, for example, are continuing their research project from BIOL 411 Recombinant DNA. If you are thinking about joining a research lab, you should open up a dialogue with your potential research advisor well before the end of the prior semester.

Summer research internships that provide a stipend are offered on a competitive basis through the Honors College SURE (Summer Undergraduate Research Experience) program. It is best to be in communication with a potential research advisor prior to applying to this program.

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

We are a Drosophila genetics / genomics lab and regularly practice the tools of the trade. The techniques that you will learn will depend upon your particular project but may include:

carrying out Drosophila crosses. This will involve the identification of mutant phenotypes and lessons in Mendelian genetics.
gene mapping (within Drosophila)
assays for mutant phenotypes
molecular techniques such as DNA isolation, DNA cloning, restriction analysis, Southern analysis, PCR etc.
yeast two-hybrid assays

A common theme to all projects is lessons in the scientific process of investigation. You will be exposed to experimental design and learn about the importance of controls. During your time in the lab you should come to appreciate how your experiments fit into the "big picture" - both the goals of the lab and of the discipline.

Ready to join us? Contact Dr. Weiler to learn more! No obligation.

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