****************

For fall 2007, a new text will be used in this class. 

Each student should get a copy of Biotechnology: An Introduction, 2nd Edition, by Susan R. Barnum.

The book is available at the University Bookstore. 

********************

Most research papers published in Plant Biotechnology Journal would be suitable. 

Likewise, plant or animal-related research articles in  Nature Biotechnology are also good choices.

******************

We have some great guest lecturers lined up for this semester...

Melissa Blouin is a professional writer who has laboratory research experience and an advanced degree in science writing.

************************

A good, basic explanation of DNA replication-transcription-translation can be found at

http://www.nobel.se/medicine/educational/dna/index.html

Here is a PDF file showing the first quiz that was given in 2004...   ExampleQuizI

****************

Here are the guidelines for your written assignment:

The Assignment: You will choose a research paper(s) from the primary literature covering some aspect of biotechnology, and write a review of the paper.

When completed, you should hand-in five pages or less, typed, double-spaced with a photocopy of the paper that you reviewed.

1) Choose a research paper dealing with some aspect of agbiotechnology from the primary literature. Do NOT use a review paper or anything from the popular press (e.g., papers from the National Enquirer on Elvis-cloning are not acceptable). Some example publications where you might find a suitable paper are:

Nature-Biotechnology, Transgenic Research, Science, Nature, Biotechnology, Journal of Biotechnology, or many other journals perhaps specific to your own field of research.

Papers can cover molecular-based work, field research, new transgenics, animal cloning, diagnostics, techniques, genomics, economics, public acceptance of GMOs, DNA-computing, labeling issues, etc., as long as they are research-oriented and pertain to agricultural biotechnology in some way.

What were they trying to do or show or solve or measure?   What was already known or claimed in this area of research? You should refer to other papers in the field to prepare your report (be sure to cite them).  DO NOT use the internet as your only source of information.  

This should be the bulk of your review. What did they do? What techniques were used? Were there problems with the study?

How can this information be applied? What are the benefits? Are there potential problems? Who might oppose or support this technology? What other questions or issues does this work raise? How could this work be improved upon?

You will be graded on:

Points

Assignment handed in on time?                   4

Proper format and materials handed in?       4

Choice of paper—is it agbiotech related?     4

Structure of your paper?                                 8

Content of your paper?                                  20

**************************************