As a researcher, you will work with Dr. Gould’s team to investigate the ecology and genetics of insect pests in order to better understand how genetic engineering is being used to decrease malaria, dengue, and crop losses.
You will also interact with researchers in the humanities and social sciences as they use quantitative and qualitative research tools to grapple with and address the complex public responses to products of these genetic technologies.
As part of your summer externship, you will learn about diverse approaches to studying these problems ranging from molecular analysis and ecological experiments to mathematical and computer modeling as you work with Dr. Gould and his team. You will engage with projects focused on how to inhibit pests from evolving resistance to transgenic crops and how to engineer vectors of human disease so as to spread anti-pathogen genes into mosquito populations. Depending on your interests, you will focus more on ecological, molecular, or modeling aspects of the projects. Because new genetic technologies must fit within a social and cultural context, you will also learn about approaches for soliciting public feedback and for developing appropriate governance.
Armed with new knowledge and access to experts in the field, you will develop curriculum that integrates your experience with this innovative and exciting research while maintaining alignment with your content standards. This experience will allow you to return to the classroom equipped to inspire the next generation of research scientists as they engage in relevant, hands-on experiences developed throughout your externship.
Dr. Fred Gould and Dr. Jennifer Kuzma, NC State
Raleigh, NC