For many important biological questions, an important step is often to determine the gene(s) involved in a particular trait. My research focuses on determining the genetic basis of herbicide resistance in weeds. By understanding which genes are involved we can better understand the evolutionary past and future of this trait, which impacts our food supply. The same methods I use in my research can be applied to many other traits that you may be interested in. Given that genetic data is often publically available, identifying genes of interest for a particular trait can be done in the comfort of your own home! The goal of this project is to give you hands on practice at bioinformatic techniques and interpretation.
Responsibilities will vary by project specifics. Responsibilities may include: downloading and manipulating large files, RNA-seq analysis, transcriptomic analysis, selection analysis, sequence analysis, genome assembly analysis and other bioinformatic approaches.
This project is best suited for students interested in graduate school. It also requires the ability to troubleshoot on your own using help from the internet. Additionally, it requires access to a computer (not a tablet). Some programming experience is helpful, but not required.
Email me at mlv18@psu.edu