| Affiliations: | STEM EDUCATION Research Leadership |
| Project Leader: | Bin Wu, Ph.D. bin.wu@tamu.edu Biology |
| Faculty Mentor: | Hongmin Qin, Ph.D. |
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Meeting Times:
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TBA |
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Team Size:
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4
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| Open Spots: | 0 |
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Special Opportunities:
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Participants in our project will have the opportunity to: 1) Gain a comprehensive understanding of plant physiology and specialize in woody plant tissue culture techniques. 2) Acquire skills in the strategic use of various plant growth regulators (PGRs) to achieve callus formation from stem or leaf sections, encourage bud differentiation from callus, and successfully root regenerated plantlets. 3) Master a range of practical plant tissue culture methods and other cutting-edge biological techniques. 4) Receive opportunities to present their research findings at prestigious scientific forums, including the TAMU Student Research Week and the Biology Undergraduate Research Symposium. 5) Access potential internship opportunities with leading nurseries throughout Texas, enhancing practical experience in the field. 6) Enhance writing skills in drafting scholarly documents and engage in the peer-reviewed manuscript preparation. |
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Team Needs:
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While a foundational understanding of plant physiology and introductory experience in plant tissue culture are advantageous, they are not mandatory prerequisites for joining our team. Selected candidates will receive comprehensive training to ensure they are well-equipped for the project. We are on the lookout for new team members who can infuse our group with diversity, energy, and commitment. If you’re passionate about plant breeding and eager to contribute to a dynamic team, we encourage you to apply, regardless of your current level of expertise. |
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Description:
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T1. Project Objective This project aims to enhance undergraduate education in plant sciences by integrating a hands-on research experiment in plant tissue culture with academic writing training. The dual focus on practical experimentation and effective communication will prepare students for future endeavors in both research and professional contexts. 2. Research Experiment Component The research experiment component will involve the crapemyrtle propagation through tissue culture techniques. Students will explore the conditions necessary for successful tissue culture, including maintaining sterility, optimizing growth media, and understanding factors that affect explant regeneration capacity. Hands-on experiences will include surface sterilization of plant tissues, culture of explants in sterile nutrient media, and application of plant hormones to induce shoot and root development. 3. Writing Training Component The writing training component will focus on developing students’ academic writing skills relevant to the field of plant sciences. This will include instruction on structuring and writing research papers. Students will learn to articulate their scientific findings logically and coherently, mastering the essential components of scientific writing such as abstracts, introductions, methodologies, results, and discussions. Furthermore, the training will emphasize the importance of ethical writing practices, including proper citation and acknowledgment of sources, to cultivate integrity in academic communication. 4. Integration of Components The integration of the research experiment and writing training will facilitate a comprehensive learning experience. Students will conduct experiments and subsequently translate their findings into written reports, poster/oral presentations, and a manuscript. This method will allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge while developing critical thinking and writing skills, ensuring they can effectively communicate their research to a broader audience. 5. Expected Outcomes By the end of this semester, students are expected to acquire essential plant tissue culture skills and proficiency in academic writing. The outcomes include improved technical abilities in maintaining sterile cultures and optimizing plant growth conditions, as well as enhanced skills in drafting scholarly documents and engaging in peer review processes. Moreover, this training will prepare students for pathways in scientific research, environmental conservation, and biotechnology careers, fostering a new generation of skilled professionals capable of bridging arts and sciences. |