Dordt University's Biology Department participates in groundbreaking plant research

Dordt University’s Biology Department is collaborating with researchers at the Donald Danforth Plant Research Laboratory in St. Louis, Missouri to identify heat-resistant genes in plants. Dordt is one of 9 schools participating in the Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) this semester. The project is taking place in the genetic labs course led by Dr. Preeti Shinde, associate professor of biology at Dordt.

“The big picture question behind this research is, which genes are involved in a plant’s response to excess heat?” says Dr. Tony Jelsma, professor of biology at Dordt.

Students in Shinde’s genetics lab course have been studying plants’ response to high-heat treatment to identify genes that allow plants to survive extreme heat. Shinde says that while the specific topic will be covered later in the semester, the project has helped cultivate students’ interest in research. Additionally, “since the project requires continuous monitoring of the specimen plant growth, it has fostered a sense of ownership and investment in their learning,” says Shinde.

Jelsma emphasized the value of CUREs for students to gain practical research experience, “rather than ‘canned’ lab activity.” He adds, “this lab activity makes our work more relevant to the world’s needs.”

Faculty and students at Dordt are encouraged to participate in research, not only because of the way it enhances learning, but also in response to the Christian call to serve others.

“It also helps students see that what we do is just a small part of a much bigger picture in terms of research,” says Jelsma. “I also like the idea that we are helping other research groups achieve their goals. We’re all in this together.”

About Dordt University

As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt is a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.