Faculty of Science Project Summaries
Supervisors
Project title: Exploring the Cellulose Circuit
Summary of research project: Komagataeibacter xylinus, a Gram-negative bacterium, produces cellulose as an extracellular biopolymer essential for biofilm formation and for mediating host-microbe interactions. Relatively little is known about the regulatory network governing cellulose biosynthesis. This project offers opportunity to decode the function of a key regulatory protein in this pathway. By leveraging advanced molecular biology, bioinformatics, and biochemical techniques, we will map this protein’s influence on gene expression and cellulose synthesis. This research could have significant implications for biotechnological applications, particularly in material science and microbial biotechnology.
Student responsibilities/tasks:
- Students will conduct experiments and document research activities in a laboratory notebook.
- Techniques used in this project include aseptic handling, bacterial culture, sterilization, sample preparation, mutagenesis, complementation, cloning, analytical biochemical assays, gel electrophoresis, PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, bioinformatics analyses.
- Completion of biosafety and WHMIS training is required.
Student qualifications required:
- Applicants are expected to have successfully completed BIOL 2060U, and BIOL 3080U with a minimum grade of B+.
Expected training/skills to be received by the Student:
- Experimental design and molecular techniques.
- Research documentation and scientific reporting.
- Data analysis and interpretation.
- Core laboratory techniques and lab management.
- Collaborative research and professional skills.
Length of award: 14 Weeks
Location of award: In-Person
Available Award: NSERC USRA or Ontario Tech STAR
