My role during our summer research project involved being in charge of many of the aspects concerning most of the experimental objective parts. In the lab, I performed many of the experiments stated in our project proposal such as the longevity of disrupted microbiome, nutrient uptake, susceptibility of fish to infection, osmotic regulation, and contaminated water with high microbial counts. Every couple of weeks throughout the summer I drove to the Woodlands Lake to collect our fish model organism, Gambusia affinis. Approximately 50 fish were collected with a net and placed into a bucket for travel back to the lab. Before initiating these experiments, I conducted trial runs in order to obtain a standard measurement point to be applied to the particular experiment’s objective. Dr. Primm and I collaborated on different approaches concerning each experimental run’s objective and developed the process at what the protocol application was going to involve within each run. From this we generated each experimental protocol including the methods, techniques, data time points, and the particular process to be applied. For each experiment, I performed multiple runs. Repeating each experiment several times gives more confidence in our final result. For each experiment I prepared the materials needed, recorded data point measurements, and addressed every detail aspect. Details were a critical responsibility to make sure that every aspect of the experiment was taken into account. I recorded observations and data for each time point that was given. After the experimental runs were performed I assisted in Dr. Primm in analyzing the data collected.
The research project that we did over the summer tremendously benefited my professional development and contributed to an overall enhancement of a priceless skill set. I am currently a senior at SHSU with plans to further my education in graduate school. During this project I logged many hours working in the lab, gaining valuable laboratory experience. In regards to this experience, I have gained more knowledge of how to conduct scientific investigations. By working in the lab, I was able to apply hands-on learning involving concepts and techniques that are only discussed in class. Working in a real lab setting provided me with a deeper understanding of work ethics that I could not acquire without actually being exposed to that environment. The skills I have learned over the course of this project have instilled invaluable hands-on experience that will be a helpful aide for grad school as well as my future career in microbiology. I am extremely appreciative of the special opportunity in working on this project that would not have been achievable if funding was not contributed. I was given the privilege to work with such an amazingly brilliant professor Dr. Primm and great student team.