This is a project in Virology. We are using molecular diagnostic techniques, i.e. reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction to detect viral RNA in human clinical specimens. Then we use restriction enzyme digestion to verify the viral origin of the amplicons. The objective is to relate a specific virus to a chronic neurodevelopmental disease. A background and interest in molecular biology is required.
Students can receive university credit, stipend or volunteer opportunities are also available.
Research opportunities are available to majors only who are interested in learning more about basic molecular techniques, cloning, recombinant protein expression, PCR, etc. A commitment of 15 to 20 hours per week is necessary to earn between 1-4 credits. Apply by sending resume to Philip LoVerde. Research opportunities are available for majors and non-majors who are interested in learning about genetics, molecular biology, and protein and nucleic acid chemistry. Apply in person.