Techniques of Evolutionary Research A New course at The American University

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This award provides funds to the Biology Department at The American University to purchase equipment for a new laboratory course entitled "Techniques of Evolutionary Research". Methods for studying evolutionary mechanisms and reconstructing evolutionary history have diversified. Understanding of the genetic structure of species has been deepened by the adaption of molecular biology techniques and quantitative analysis. Equipment purchased through this award will be used to train students in these current methods. Students will learn up-to-date methods for the study of: (1) molecular evolution (2) quantitative genetics and (3) phylogenetic reconstruction. Laboratory exercises in molecular evolution will use a frost-free freezer, a chromatography refrigerator, a mini- fermentor, 2 pH meters, 2 top-loading balances, and an ice machine. Quantitative genetic analysis will use an electrobalance and an image analysis system. A PS/2 computer is will be purchased for operating programs for phylogenetic reconstruction. All equipment will be secondarily available to other courses, so approximately 1000 students will profit from this equipment acquisition over a 5-year period. The aim of "Techniques of Evolutionary Research" is to insight interest in evolution and to develop skills useful in careers in organismic biology, but useful in all other areas of biological research as well.