We evolved in a microbial world! As a result, resident microbial communities are dynamic and integral components of our health. Despite their microscopic size, the commensal organisms (such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses) that inhabit our bodies have far-reaching effects. While many studies focus on the gut (where most resident microbes reside) we now appreciate that these teeming communities also impact systemic organs, including the nearby pancreas. Longitudinal sequencing of the microbiome from birth to adulthood has highlighted the dynamic development of resident communities within the gut, with postnatal populations being distinct and fleeting. Whether the short-term enrichment of distinguishing microbial taxa during infancy is uniquely important for postnatal developmental events and long-term health is an unexplored question. The Hill Lab uses germ-free (or sterile) model systems to study how the microbiota shapes postnatal development in the pancreas with the goal of discovering novel microbe-inspired therapeutics.
MCDB 3135 - Molecular Biology
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2025
Examines the central dogma of biology by discussing the most important molecules in cells (DNA, RNA and protein) and how their synthesis (DNA replication, transcription, RNA processing and translation) is regulated. Incorporated into the discussion is how recombinant DNA techniques are used to discover and dissect cellular processes, how to design and interpret experiments, and understanding the limits of experiments to draw conclusions.
MCDB 6000 - Introduction to Laboratory Methods
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2025 / Fall 2025
Introduces methodology and techniques used in biological research. Designed as a tutorial between a few students and one faculty member. Students are expected to read original research papers, discuss findings, and to plan and execute experiments in selected areas. May be repeated up to 15 total credit hours.
