The Southern University Institutional Recombinant DNA Research Committee IRCC is making strides in the research and study of DNA.
Deoxyribose Nucleic Acid, also known as DNA, are sequences of nucleotides that determine an individual’s distinctiveness by hereditary.
“The study of recombinant DNA means taking DNA from different sources and putting them together,” said Ella Kelly, chairperson of the recombinant DNA committee.
The classification of researchers ranges from undergraduate to graduate students. There are three categories of research students: research for the required curriculum, concise projects and volunteers. Chemistry majors are required to have six hours, usually two semesters, of research to graduate.
All research proposals must be properly submitted and approved before research can take place. Once approved, a university professor and researcher are paired together to examine the assignment and ensure that all research is reliable.
According to Kelly, the committee is under a government mandate. Any institution has to carry out research under certain standards and conditions.
“Cloning, using weird creatures and other things of such are not done,” Kelly said.
Correct procedure is vitally important for all research. A description of the experiment, an assessment of the levels of physical and biological contaminants with a statement of study facilities and procedures, information on health surveillance and assurance that the principal investigator complies with mandatory National Institute of Health guidelines are all necessary.
There are several students doing research currently on various projects. “The Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory is the primary research focus in the lab,” said chemistry professor Wesley Gray. “It is the study of natural compounds in vegetables and fruit and their effects on hormones.”
Despite the sometimes demanding and rigorous schedule and work, Dr. Gray continues to support his students.
“Students are encouraged to organize, present, and set an objective in addition to the research, Gray said. “It is a different and interactive learning experience.”
For more information on DNA research and the Institutional Recombinant DNA Research Committee, contact Kelly at 771-3990.
