Microbial Genome Sequencing: Genome Sequencing and Analysis of Azotobacter Vinelandii

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This project has two goals: The production of a finished, well-annotated genome sequence of the free-living nitrogen fixing bacterium Azotobacter vinelandii and the expansion of existing undergraduate training platforms in genomics technology at both participating and off-site institutions. A. vinelandii is a gamma-proteobacterium belonging to the family Pseudomonadaceae. This organism provides an excellent system in which to examine the processes of aerobic nitrogen fixation, cyst formation and xenobiotic degradation. Within the Pseudomonadaceae family only one of the three main genera has fully sequenced representatives (Pseudomonas). Provision of the complete A. vinelandii genome will therefore serve as one of the essential gold-standard phylogenetic anchor points for comparative genomics. Studies on these and other aspects of Azotobacter biology will be significantly enhanced by the availability of a well-annotated genome sequence. Annotation and analysis of the genome will occur in close collaboration with undergraduate students and the broader Azotobacter research community. Undergraduate researchers will be integrated into all aspects of the project, both within the classroom and through independent research projects, including the finishing, annotation, bioinformatics and analytical phases. Such participation will not only provide critical training for new scientists in the field of genomics and bioinformatics, it will be a key component by which critical project goals will be met. In line with each of these goals this project brings together extensive expertise from five independent groups with significant experience in Azotobacter biology, genomics, bioinformatics, and undergraduate education.