Experiential Learning at UD

By Christopher Miller

Assistant Biochemistry Professor Dr. Yvonne Sun’s antibiotic discovery lab is beginning to conduct research as part of the Tiny Earth Network. This is a group made up of students and instructors from all over the world who focus on crowdsourcing antibiotic discovery from soil. To do this, Sun’s undergraduate class started by digging around UD for soil samples. Most students collected their samples from their homes.

“My soil sample is from my backyard so I’m interested to see what is living in there,” said senior biology major Jackie Petrichevich.

Led by Sun and graduate student, Erica Rinehart, the class plated their soil samples out in petri dishes so they can see all the different bacteria they isolated from the soil.

“They’ll see different colors, different shapes, and some produce grotesque mucus,” Rinehart said. The students will be able to analyze these factors and more to isolate individual bacteria for antibiotic testing. These results contribute to research for the Tiny Earth Network.

Every bacterial isolate the students are able to find that produces an antibiotic effect is a potential source for antibiotic production in the future. Further testing against other microbes and cells will reveal the identities of the bacterial isolates and the toxicity of the antimicrobial compounds they produce.

Sun’s antibiotic discovery lab benefits biology students by providing them with vital knowledge and practical skills that they will need in any lab setting. Moreover, through a laboratory class, students gain authentic, hands-on research experience and contribute to a real-world challenge.

Dr. Sun’s class is just one example of research at UD. The University of Dayton performs more sponsored materials research and development than any other college or university in the country, according to the newest data available by the National Science Foundation. About 90% of that research is done by the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI). This institute is currently researching advanced structures technologies for the Air Force. The Hanley Sustainability Institute supports student research promoting campus sustainability solutions.

With the support and guidance of mentors, students can also conduct lab-based research and fieldwork in the natural sciences and social sciences. Students get the chance to present their research during the Stander Symposium as well as the Arts and Sciences Symposium. Hands-on research is a valuable form of experiential learning due to all the factors involved. A mentor is there to guide your actions. You are gaining practical skills that will carry into your career. Finally, your research can make a unique impact on the world for the common good.