Have a creative idea or research plans?

· URA provides up to $1500 to undergraduate students to support their research or creative work with a UMBC faculty mentor

· Students of all years and disciplines may apply

· Start now: Proposal Deadline — March 3, 2011

ABSTRACT: The threat of bacterial pathogens, such as the anthrax-causing Bacillus anthracis, as biological weapons has made it more urgent to understand the mechanism and properties of bacterial endospores. In harsh conditions the bacterium transforms into endospores which can remain dormant for many years and then germinate in favorable conditions, such as a human host. A detailed understanding of certain spore characteristics can help improve the methodology and instruments used by first responders in a biohazard emergency to ensure rapid, accurate, and non-invasive detection. This study attempts to use the characteristic of intrinsic fluorescence to differentiate molecular species by their unique spectra. The effects of certain germinant nutrients and temperature on the growth and germination of the Bacillus spores were also characterized. A comparative analysis was done of the spectra of different strains of Bacillus thuringiensis and Bacillus cereus (both simulants for Bacillus anthracis) grown in three different growth media. After several calibration curves of Dipicolinic acid (DPA) and DPA complexes were created, the samples were scanned for these endogenous fluorescent molecules. Measurements of the concentration of the fluorescent DPA complexes were used to follow the germination of the spores.

To read a q&a with Neeti and to find out more information about her research, click on the website below!

The Albin O. Kuhn Library and Gallery is offering extended hours through exams.

* Sundays- Thursdays we will be open until 2 a.m.
* Fridays and Saturdays we will be open until 10 p.m.

Thank you and good luck on your exams!

Apply now to take HAPP 403, International Field Research. During spring semester students attend a weekly seminar, complete background research, and write a research paper. Students are assigned to a research team based on the theme they select. Duirng the Swiss academic program, students stay in beautiful Kandersteg, travel to nearby cities, and hike in the Alps to complete a series of research exercises. Highlights include day trips to Geneva, Zurich, Berne, glaciers and the Swiss people.  Applications due December 1.

Join an active research team. This work focuses on the factors and conditions that create and maximize success for underrepresented groups in engineering and IT majors and fields. Undergraduate Research Assistant positions are for five hours per week for both fall and spring semester. Unpaid, but may earn academic credit. Research assistants must have at least a 3.0 GPA and possess strong writing skills and the ability to work both independently and as a team member. Must be willing to learn EndNote software and be available to meet with the other members of the research team. Some experience with using the UMBC library’s online search procedures and familiarity with APA citation style preferred. Apply through UMBCworks. For more information Dr. Susan Martin, CWIT Associate Director, susan@umbc.edu, phone: (410) 455-3109