Incorporation of a Cooperative and Interdisciplinary Research Project into an Undergraduate Biology and Chemistry Curriculum

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This project incorporates an on-going molecular and biochemical study of ureases into the laboratories of several upper level biology and chemistry courses at Austin College. Students in each of the target courses carry out different but complementary experiments aimed at better understanding the genetics, regulation and biochemistry of microbial ureases. At the end of each semester, students in the target courses participate in a symposium in which they share their findings. This project provides students with laboratory experiences that are on-going and investigative, and that cut through the boundaries of individual courses so that students emerge with a more integrative view of the sciences. This collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to teaching science models the methods of doing research in the scientific community. These experiences help prepare students for careers in health sciences, industry, research, and teaching.