Renovation of Cordley Hall Biology Research and Training Facilities

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Coakley Oregon State University is the recipient of ARI funds for the renovation and repair of the controlled environment facilities in Cordley Hall, home to the Departments of Botany and Plant Pathology, Entomology, and Zoology. The research and research training performed in the departments focuses on increasing the knowledge and understanding of biological responses to the environment. Research programs of 28 faculty that will benefit from the renovations are grouped into four categories: environmental biology, cellular and molecular biology, host-parasite interactions, and genetics, developmental, and evolutionary biology. Environmental biologists investigate issues of global environmental change and their effect on biological diversity and biological productivity in animal and plant species. Cellular and molecular biology research includes developing methods for using biotechnology to manage the effects of global change. Investigative studies, in genetics, developmental and evolutionary biology, include research on the genetic and hormonal regulation of morphogenesis and gene expression, and how these control the development in plants and animals. The goal of the research program is to gain a better understanding of the processes that contribute to more sustainable ecosystems and maintenance of biological diversity. The absence of sufficient controlled environment rooms currently limits the scope of projects that faculty can undertake. Due to antiquated systems and absence of protective and back-up mechanisms, valuable experiments have been lost following power failures. Renovations of these rooms and of the sea water and fresh water aquariums will have a major impact on the ability of the faculty to conduct research and research training. Several capabilities not available, including dedicated space for plant and insect studies, dew deposition, photobiology, seed storage and containments of transgenic plants, will be available once renovations are comple ted. Such improved facilities will enhance the Department to pursue new research opportunities.