Research Description:

My work involves creating a molecular phylogeny of numerous species in the genus Maxillaria, family Orchidaceae, by using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to sequence the ITS 1 and 2 regions of the nuclear genome. The species I am working with correlate to the work of Holtzmeier et. al. (1997), who have constructed a phylogeny based upon the anatomical features of the group. My paper will combine their work with the molecular data I collect to produce a well-resolved set of data and an accurate phylogeny.

Although the original goal of my research was to examine fifteen species, the Undergraduate Scholars award gave me the opportunity to sequence over fifty. It has enabled me to continue to improve my lab skills and my knowledge of PCR techniques, and I have learned how to create accurate phylogenies that are constructed with the ensuing sequences. I now know how to manipulate the DNA extraction process, the DNA amplification process, and the DNA sequencing process to cope with species that will not cooperate, for whatever reason. I began my research with self-serving intentions, but I was given the opportunity to contribute my time and energy to the work of my mentor and his ultimate goal of constructing a complete phylogeny of the genus Maxillaria.