Dare Odumosu, Abuja, Nigeria
Prof. Stephen Matheson

Role of mDia1 in Mouse Embryonic Development
“Mice lacking the signaling protein mDia1 display an unusual genetic ratio suggesting early lethality of the mutants. We are seeking to explain the irregularity by observing embryonic development at specific points in the gestation period of the animals using genetic and cell biology tools.”
Research Funded by Howard Hughes Medical Institute Grant (HHMI)

Stacy Visser, Ancaster, ON
Nathan VandeBurgt, Salem, OR
Prof. Arlene Hoogewerf

Biofilm Bacteria & their Mechanisms to Evade Host Cell Defenses
“We are looking for the receptor that binds IL-1â, a chemical messenger of the immune system, because it stimulates growth in bacterial biofilms. Research Funded by HHMI

Rebekah Piegols, Highlands Ranch, CO
Prof. Stephen Matheson

Expression of Diaphanous-Related Formins in Neuronal Cells
“I am characterizing the association between two proteins, mDia2 and EF1a, in neuronal cells.”
Research Funded by National Institutes of Health Grant (NIH)

Beth Philipsen, Glenwood, MN
Andrew Hurst, Peterborough, ON
Prof. Curt Blankespoor

A study and comprehensive insect survey of Calvin's nature preserve.
“We are investigating how the diversity of insects changes over time in different geographic regions.
Research Funded by Science Division Star Fellowship, Biology Department

Jonathan Hurst, Peterborough, ON
Prof. David Koetje

Development of Recombinant DNAs for Assessment of Protease Function in Transgenic Plants
“I am cloning the Jrp1 gene into a vector for eventual insertion into plant DNA which will be used to control the production of the Methyl jasmonate hormone in the modified plant, as well as compile a library of pCambia vectors.
Research Funded by HHMI

Rachel Veldman, Hudsonville, MI
Prof. Elizabeth Howell

The DNA replication Complex: Seeing is Believing
“I use a fancy microscope to visualize and study replication proteins bound to DNA”
Research Funded by Merck and American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)

Jody Mohle, Moorefield, ON
Prof. David Koetje

Genotyping Hosta plants to Clarify Genetic Relationships between Cultivated Varieties
“I am determining Hosta plant species relatedness by comparing DNA ‘fingerprints’ using Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP).”
Research Funded by HHMI

Christina Ludema, Geneva, IL
Prof. Stephen Matheson

Consequences of disrupting Diaphanous-related formin signaling in
neuronal cells
“I use a new technology called RNA interference (RNAi) to knock down the expression of mDia, a protein that plays a role in cell division and axon elongation, in neuronal cells and then I examine the changes that occur. This research is important for understanding neuronal regeneration.”
Research Funded by NIH Grant

Ryan Bebej, Princeton, IL
Jennette Timmer, Holland, MI
Prof. David Warners and Prof. Randall Van Dragt

Botanical Inventory of Vergennes Township
“We have spent the summer identifying plant species and high quality natural areas in the woods, wetlands, and prairies of Vergennes Township.
Research Funded by Science Division Biology Department Grant and
Vergennes Township Grant

Holly Hoffman, Alma, MI
Prof. John Ubels

Artificial Tear Formulations and Immunohistochemitsry related to K+ transport in lacrimal glands
“I am testing the effects of new artificial tear formulations on the ocular surface to see their effectiveness in combating dry eye syndrome, and looking at the expression of K-transporters and channels in the ducts of lacrimal glands.”
Research Funded by HHMI and Alcon Laboratories

Rachel Unema, Hudsonville, MI
Alison Baker, Strathroy, ON
Prof. David Warners

Praire Restoration and Native Plant Landscaping
“In order to restore the highly altered landscape surrounding the Helen Bunker Interpretive Center, we have been examining the most effective ways to re-introduce native species to the Michigan landscape using mycorrhizal inoculation and erosion control methods.
Research Funded by Science Division Biology Department Grant