MRI: Acquisition of an automated DNA sequencer to enhance faculty-student research in molecular biology at the University of Central Oklahoma

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The National Science Foundation has awarded a grant to the University of Central Oklahoma for the acquisition of an automated DNA sequencer. This instrument will provide the University with a fully functional molecular biology laboratory, allowing faculty and students to perform a wide array of research projects at their home institution. A large proportion of the Biology Department faculty perform molecular biology research that will leverage the sequencer capabilities for studies in the fields of viral/parasite-host species co-evolution, population genetics, phylogeography, molecular systematics, molecular ecology, and genome evolution. This research is conducted on a diversity of organisms, including mammals, birds, reptiles, insects, plants, and fungi. Results from the research conducted will be presented at scientific meetings and published in a variety of peer-reviewed journals. UCO is a non-Ph.D. granting, predominantly undergraduate, metropolitan university. A long-term goal of the university emphasizes transformative learning, including the integration of research and teaching activities, transitioning from traditional lecture-based courses to the incorporation of more hands-on research and inquiry-based education. To aid in this transformative learning goal, the Department of Biology encourages students to engage in research activities, especially research projects with faculty members outside of the traditional classroom. The department currently serves nearly 900 undergraduate majors.