This two-semester phage genomics laboratory course satisfies the lab components of BIO 101: Cells and BIO 102: Genetics. The genomics lab provides a unique opportunity to participate in an authentic research experience rather than a "cookbook" lab. Designed for freshman Biology, Chemical Biology or Environmental Science majors, this lab experience combines themes and technology from several specialized biological fields, including microbiology, molecular biology, genomics, and bioinformatics.

Saint Joseph's is one of a select few colleges and universities chosen and supported by the HHMI to participate in this project. We will share data, troubleshoot, and discuss results with other participants in the Science Education Alliancs (SEA) via the Internet. As unique phages are characterized, students will publish their findings in scientific journals for the broader scientific community.

What students say about Phage Safari:

	My Phage Safari experience thus far has been more rewarding than I could ever imagine. I did not know exactly what I was signing up for when I applied to join the lab (it does require a lot of time and effort outside of class hours), but I am very glad I did. Not only did I learn about all of the time, planning, hard work, and persistence necessary for success in a research setting, I felt extremely gratified knowing I was participating in a national research project. Incoming freshmen: be prepared to give Phage Safari your full effort and to receive from it tenfold! If I had to do it all over again, I would sign up in a heartbeat! Jenna Harrison
Any biology student looking for a truly unique and inspiring experience should sign up for Phage Safari.  This class helps develop good lab technique as well as builds time management, organization, observation, and communication skills that all students will eventually need to be competitive in their chosen careers.  This is an exciting opportunity for students as early as freshman year to take part in a nation wide research project and possibly discover the next generation of scientific solutions to today's world problems. Molly Southwell		Joining Phage was one the best decisions I could have made as a freshman! It made me even more prepared as a biology major because of all the new insight and experience it provided. Alexia Sparrow

Examples of student phage electron micrographs: