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Updated: Nov 27, 2025
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Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Published on: October 15, 2019
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Microbiomes for All
Theodore R Muth1,2, Avrom J Caplan3
1Department of Biology, Brooklyn College of The City University of New York, Brooklyn, NY, United States.
Frontiers in Microbiology
|December 7, 2020
Summary
Integrating microbiome research into undergraduate courses offers interdisciplinary learning opportunities. This approach connects students to real-world issues in health, environment, and agriculture, while supporting faculty research.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Ecology
- Genetics
- Bioinformatics
- Statistics
Background:
- Microbiome research is inherently interdisciplinary, spanning multiple scientific fields.
- Undergraduate courses can benefit from incorporating microbiome research projects.
- These projects have relevance to human health, environmental science, and agriculture.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the potential of integrating microbiome research into undergraduate curricula.
- To share strategies and insights from implementing such projects across various institutions.
- To highlight how course-based microbiome research can benefit faculty professional development.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and practical experiences in implementing undergraduate microbiome research.
- Discussion of various modalities for integrating microbiome research into different course levels.
- Analysis of strategies to overcome common challenges in undergraduate microbiome research projects.
Main Results:
- Microbiome research projects are suitable for a wide range of undergraduate biology courses.
- Successful implementation requires strategies to address common hurdles.
- Integration can advance faculty research and professional development.
Conclusions:
- Course-based undergraduate research in the microbiome is a valuable pedagogical tool.
- It offers interdisciplinary training and connects students to critical global issues.
- Resources and strategies exist to support faculty in adopting these projects.
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