Research Methods in Microbiology

Professor Jason Tor’s Research Methods in Microbiology class is focused on investigation of bacteria in the R.W. Kern Center water system. Students will develop their lab skills by culturing, growing, and experimenting on bacteria collected from the pipes to help improve the building’s drinking water system. What kind of bacteria are found in the building? How do those bacteria respond to changes in pH, chlorine levels, and UV treatment? And how might that inform treatment and operating strategies? This class offers students the opportunity to do meaningful research on the current and pressing problem of securing quality drinking water, for their campus community and the world at large.