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bioRxiv · 10.1101/2023.02.14.528535

CUR(E)ating a New Approach to Study Fungal Effectors and Enhance Undergraduate Education through Authentic Research

Li, G.·McWiliams, M.·Rodrigues, M.·Mearkle, B.·Jaafar, N.·Golla, V.·Yu, H.·Yang, H.·Ayhan, D. H.·Allen, K. S.·Martinez-Soto, D.·Springer, A.·Ma, L.-J.
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Abstract

Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs) integrate active, discovery-based learning into undergraduate curriculums, adding tremendous value to Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) education. There are multiple challenges in transforming a research project into a CURE, such as the readiness of students, the time commitment of the instructor, and the productivity of the research. In this article, we report a CURE course developed and offered in the University of Massachusetts Amherst BMB Department since 2018 that addresses these challenges. Our CURE focuses on fungal effectors which are proteins secreted by a destructive pathogenic fungus Fusarium oxysporum, one of the top five most devastating plant pathogens. By studying this group of proteins, students are connected to real-world problems and participate in the search for potential solutions. A three-week "standard Bootcamp" is implemented to help students familiarize themselves with all basic techniques and boost their confidence. Next, molecular cloning, a versatile technique with modularity and repeatability, is used as the bedrock of the course. Our past five years of experience have confirmed that we have developed a novel and feasible CURE protocol. Measurable progress documented by students who took this course includes stimulated active learning and increased career trajectory to pursue hypothesis-based research to address societal needs. In addition, data generated through the course advance ongoing lab research. Collectively, we encourage the implementation of CURE among research-intensive faculty to provide a more inclusive research experience to all students, an important element in predicting career success.

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Li, G., McWiliams, M., Rodrigues, M., Mearkle, B., Jaafar, N., Golla, V., Yu, H., Yang, H., Ayhan, D. H., Allen, K. S., Martinez-Soto, D., Springer, A., Ma, L.-J.. 2023-02-15. CUR(E)ating a New Approach to Study Fungal Effectors and Enhance Undergraduate Education through Authentic Research. https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.02.14.528535

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