Navigation

Student Projects

   Printer Friendly

Graduate Students have been instrumental in the progress of this research. I am always interested to hear from good candidates who want to explore problems in Azotobacter physiology and genetics. The most suitable candidates will have a good background in microbiology and biochemistry, preferably with proven expertise in molecular biology. I have a number of exciting and challenging projects ongoing that need the input of bright and motivated graduate students. (More information on Grad Studies)

Undergraduate Students are welcome to apply for summer positions in my laboratory, as well as for senior level Biol 499 and 498 individual research projects. Many key research contributions have been made by undergraduate students. The best candidates will have an interest in microbiology, biochemistry and molecular biology. All summer students are encouraged to apply for NSERC or AHFMR support, so need GPAs of 8.0 or higher.

Biol 490 is also a good course to gain an introduction into research. This is a literature-based research project (*3) offered in 1st term or 2nd term. Students doing a Biol 490 project in first term could follow it with Biol 498 (3*) laboratory project in 2nd term. This combination of courses would work very well for developing a theory about the function of a single gene or grouping of genes, through a study of the literature and A. vinelandii genomics in 1st term, followed by a laboratory proof in 2nd term.

Project areas:
(All studies in Azotobacter vinelandii)
1. Siderophore production and iron transport mechanisms
2. Regulation of cell activities by iron availability
3. Regulation of cell activities by other metals (Zn, Mn, Mo)
4. Stationary phase and oxygen-stress survival
5. Natural genetic competence for transformation
6. Control of bioplastic (PHB and PHBV) production
7. Genomics & proteomics of A. vinelandii
8. Comparative physiology & molecular biology of Azotobacter salinestris