JMU HONORS PROGRAM

251 Warren Service Drive
MSC 1501
Harrisonburg, VA 22807

Hillcrest House

540.568.6953
540.568.7728 
540.568.8079 (fax)

E-mail:  honors@jmu.edu

Office hours:
Mon.-Fri., 8:00am-5:00pm

 


Viral Discovery and Genomics

New for Fall 2011!   A 2-semester, hands-on course designed to give students an earlier entry into the process of original research than is typical.

 
Instructor: Dr. Stephanie Stockwell, Department of Integrated Science and Technology
This 2-semester course involves original research to find unique soil viruses that infect bacteria. Using tools from molecular biology and microbiology, students isolate their own virus from a soil sample they choose.  The viruses are visualized by electron microscopy and the genome sequence of one of the new viruses is determined.  In the second semester the genome sequence is analyzed for open reading frame (i.e. gene) determinations and likeness to other characterized viruses.  The course includes research methods, proper experimental recordkeeping, bioethics, literature review, and practice in the oral and written communication of scientific findings.  The course will culminate in a public poster session to present new student findings.

 

Originally offered as a non-honors course (see information below), the course will now be offered for honors students.

 

  

Dr. Louise Temple-Rosebrook discusses the course.

 

Freshman Research Course Proving to be a Good Model

 

Viral Discovery course  Viral Discovery course 2

Viral Discovery Course Offers Undergrad Research Opportunity

 

New Program Plunges JMU Students Into Real Research

See this video >>>