Informed Giving

Indiana University East

Don't follow the path. Go where there is no path and begin the trail. When you start a new trail equipped with courage, strength and conviction, the only thing that can stop you is you! - - Ruby Bridges

Just days after receiving a grant from the Foundation which would allow IU East to launch its Biotechnology Program, the funds were put to good use. Utilizing a portion of the grant money, IU East faculty began immediately to build their new lab. They quickly replaced incubators that were needed for experiments – a culmination of months of research conducted by the students and faculty at IU East that had been so carefully cultivated and diligently observed.

Another portion of the grant was used to replace the school’s aging spectrophotometer and to add other equipment. These purchases provide the first layer necessary for creating the biotechnology lab. This equipment is currently being used by students in the Biotechnology Program as well as students studying nursing and allied health science. Students in these laboratories work and learn through hands-on experiences with this equipment.

Students are working closely with faculty, utilizing the new biotechnology equipment to study bacteria and fungi. Examples of ongoing projects include identifying viruses found in the soil, and comparing cellular function in two species of yeast. A particular point of pride is the work done by students and faculty in sequencing genes.  Three students have had their sequences published in international repositories of genetic information. The value of the Foundation’s support will continue to enhance the educational experiences of current and future IU East students.

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