Bachelor of Science in

Biology

Humans frequently experience hearing loss as they age, which can severely affect their quality of life. Explore how genetically-modifying mice seem to be missing certain actin-related proteins affecting how quickly they lose their hearing as they age, how the structure of the inner-ear cells may change, and how gene expression is altered, with the goal of learning more about how hearing loss happens in humans and what treatments or drugs might slow or reverse the process.

Immune cells in the human body move by “crawling” from place to place to fight infection. Explore the role for various proteins in this process by working with mutant and normal cells growing in dishes and doing time-lapse video microscopy as they move. This research could lead to improving immune cell migration or preventing cancer cell migration, a related but detrimental process.

Plants produce various phytochemicals that have antimicrobial properties. Such phytochemicals are the focus of research because they can be used alongside antibiotics, which are increasingly becoming ineffective against microbes that are evolving resistance. Students can explore the antibiotic potential of various plant based compounds.

Current students are investigating the utility of midwestern yeast isolates in local biofuel, beer, and wine production, as well as how mutations in DNA impact drug resistance in pathogenic fungi.

• Students are involved in research on the ecology, conservation and management of prairies and pollinators (and using GIS); Mowing to Monarch project in Dubuque County, monarch butterflies, and invasive species.

• Explore the population ecology of marsh-nesting terns. Students have studied the breeding biology of Black Terns and Forster’s Terns in Wisconsin to better understand reasons for the recent, drastic population decline, and explore management techniques to improve reproductive success.