SEA-PHAGES (Science Education Alliance-Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science) is a two-semester, discovery-based undergraduate research course that involves isolation of bacterial viruses (phages) from the soil, their morphological characterization by electron microscopy, isolation and sequencing of phage DNA, and phage genome analysis through bioinformatics.
The SEA-PHAGES program aims to increase undergraduate interest and retention in the biological sciences through immediate immersion in authentic, valuable, yet accessible research. The program provides opportunities for professional development through effective presentation of research, networking with other participants, and dissemination of research findings, including co-authorship on submission to genome databases and peer-reviewed publications. Participation in the SEA-PHAGES program, which is offered at more than 150 institutions across the US, is connected with the markedly improved persistence of students in the sciences.
MS-INBRE is excited to partner with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) to facilitate the adoption of this impactful educational practice at higher education institutions across Mississippi. Colleges and universities that apply and are successfully admitted to the program will receive support for implementing their PHAGES projects. Principally, this includes faculty training, technical support, the acquisition of and access to laboratory equipment, attendance of annual scientific meetings, and participation in program-level evaluations.
Click here to submit your application for the SEA-PHAGES curriculum module.