Explore BiGG Data REEU is an 8-week research training opportunity for undergraduate students in bioinformatics, genetics, and genomics. The program, which is held in the summer months, provides participants with the opportunity to gain hands-on research and leadership experience while simultaneously strengthening their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. “The overall goal of the BiGG Research Scholars Program is, therefore, to holistically prepare talented, diverse women for graduate programs and careers in BiGG.”
The highly selective program is comprised of a team of faculty with active research programs focused on plants and animals, and faculty with programs focused on analysis and interpretation of BiGG data. Graduate students who have obtained the necessary skills needed for BiGG research are also involved with mentorship throughout the eight weeks. BiGG Data REEU Program Director and Associate Professor Kimberly Gwinn coordinates the program and oversees the work of the participants. Gwinn believes that undergraduate research provides students with the essential tools needed to continue furthering their education. ”BiGG Scholars are an outstanding group of talented young women who are interested in the interface between computer science and agriculture. Our teams are designed to encourage students with training in computer science to improve their scripting skills while gaining tremendous domain knowledge in biological systems. On the other hand, biology-based students develop basic coding skills, as well as an understanding of the role of big data science in agriculture.”
BiGG Data Summer 2022, which was held from June 6 – July 29, 2022, welcomed six undergraduate students. Upon arrival, the students were greeted with BiGG swag and given one of three research topics based on their research interests. Throughout the weeks, the scholars analyzed microbiome datasets previously collected from poplar, dogwood, or ticks. The Scholars also performed molecular diagnostics and identified plant-growth-promoting bacteria and plant pathogenic fungi. Upon the completion of the program, the BiGG scholars presented their project findings at the Summer Research Poster Symposium.
For more information on the program, visit https://reeu.tennessee.edu/.
Contact: Kimberly Gwinn, Program Director kgwinn@utk.edu