We are currently studying the functional genomics of the soil microbiota found in the Cabo Rojo Salterns. We plan to link the role of the microbes with the geology that prevails in this ecosystem, using metagenomic libraries. Our ultimate research goal is to discover new genes and enzymes, with Biotechnological and Biomedical applications, with special interests in those related to specific mineralization process. My mentor is Dr. Lilliam Casillas, researcher and microbiology professor at the UPR-Humacao
To be more specific, I am currently working in identifying clones, from a genomic library of the Microbial Observatory in Cabo Rojo, that degrade urea. We have isolated DNA from an environmental sample of the Microbial Observatory, cloned the DNA into a vector (plasmid), and transformed the clones into a host bacterium, in my case Escherichia coli. From here on, my work is to screen the resulting transformants in order to find this degradative enzyme, urease
Well, I chose this project because it embodies most of the things I like. It combines ecology with molecular and cellular biology. Thus, it allows me to nurture two of my passions, the study of nature and microorganisms. My experience in the lab has been very rewarding. I’ve been exposed to a scientific environment that promotes the search for knowledge. More importantly, working in the lab has strengthened my desire to pursue a PhD degree. Also, I have made new friends with similar interests with whom I can share my experiences, concerns and hopes. Moreover, even though I have not taken a microbiology class, working in the lab I have learn grow and bacteria enrichment procedures and how to prepare media, among other things. Also, I have gain experience with basic laboratory equipment. Our lab team has weekly meetings, where we discuss the status of our projects and upcoming activities.
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