This is a focused laboratory exploration of genetic diversity in the rare and endangered local endemic plant species, Fritillaria gentneri (Liliaceae). The main objective of the course is to test hypotheses about the evolutionary origins of Fritillaria gentneri.  This species, now listed under the Endangered Species Act, may have originated as a hybrid between other species of Fritillaria, or it may have arisen through reproductive isolation in a population of a closely related species. The results of this study may have interesting implications for endangered species policy and management practices.

Students will gain hands-on experience with modern methods of DNA analysis that are used to explore the evolutionary history of plants and solve problems in conservation biology:

~ DNA extraction protocols and quantitative analysis

~ Polymerase Chain Reaction principles and practice

~ Advanced gel electrophoresis protocols

~ DNA fingerprinting methods

~ DNA sequencing procedure and data analysis

Students will participate in a weekly lab meeting and discussion, perform laboratory procedures, analyze data, and contribute to a written report.  Students are also encouraged to attend a weekly professional seminar on phylogeography. Methods in Plant Systematics is funded in part by a generous grant from the US Department of Interior, Medford District BLM. Laboratory procedures will be carried out in the newly established molecular research laboratory that is being developed with major funding from the National Science Foundation.

Prerequisites:

Bi 211, Bi 212, Bi 213 (Principles of Biology)

Highly recommended:

Bi 341 (Genetics) or Bi 433/533 (Plant Systematics), and permission of instructor.

Bi 438/538 (Conservation Biology) and/or Bi 446/546 (Evolution).
 

Enrollment is limited to a small devoted team of student researchers. Students will be given first priority for enrollment who are seeking either a Masters Degree or the Certificate in Botany, or planning to continue research from this course as a Senior Capstone project. Reserve your place in the course early by applying directly to the instructor. Schedule TBA.