Last summer, the Nevada Idea Network of Biomedical Research Excellence, Inbre, in collaboration with the Nevada Bioinformatics Center organized its third cohort for the first cycle summer starting camp in microbiome. This three -week program presented 19 students from a unique perspective in biomedical sciences. Participants developed skills in data analysis, laboratory security and critical thinking. The program combined wet laboratory techniques, such as DNA sequencing with calculation methods, offering a complete introduction to biomedical research.
On the first day, the training camp was launched with a networking lunch, an introduction to the intestinal microbiome and training on laboratory security before visiting students settle in the Dorters de Reno. To prepare for laboratory work, the students finished practical instructions in the Star laboratory. They learned to manage chemical spills and use hoods – essential security skills for advanced laboratory procedures taught by assistant nutrition professor Steven Frese at the college of agriculture, biotechnology and natural resources and his graduate student, Matthew Bolino.
In the spirit of the 2024 summer Olympic Games, The Frese laboratoryWhich is also supported by the university’s experimental station unit, welcomed its own “laboratory Olympic Games”, questioning participants through four scientific events. The first event tested mathematics skills related to the laboratory. Then came a rapid dilution challenge, measuring the precision and the speed of the pipetage. The third event focused on precision pipetting, requiring stable hands to sail in smaller gel wells. Finally, the cumulative round gathered everything when the participants applied their knowledge and made a Masterge Master Solution. Armed with their new skills, the students extracted microbial DNA from samples provided by volunteers The Wolfpack study. The students finished DNA extractions and samples were sent to Idaho State University Molecular Research Core Facility (Rrid: SCR_012598) for 16S RNA sequencing.
After a week and a half in Reno, the students moved to the University Lake Tahoe campus for data analysis. They learned coding in R, using packages like “DADA2”, “Pyloseq” and “GGPLOT2” to create visually convincing graphics of the diversity of microbial species.
Students have developed and refined individual research issues, exploring subjects such as the relationship between domestic animals and the effects of food insecurity on the health of the microbiome. Students were authorized to direct research, addressing questions that had personal meaning.
Beyond laboratory skills, the training camp presented workshops and presentations that offered an overview of the life of a student researcher, including how to apply for the Faculty of Medicine, Graduated Student Life and the importance of professionalism. The program was designed to promote connection through group projects while giving students time to explore Reno and Tahoe. Group hikes, park visits, cinema evenings and shared meals have created sustainable memories and forged solid friendships, laying the basics of future professional relationships.
As we approach the end of the training camp, students prepared for the Wolf Pack 2024 discoveries symposium. For many, it was their first presentation a scientific poster. To prepare, the students engaged in workshops, simulated presentations and multiple feedback stages, perfecting their skills in scientific communication. The result was that all students presented their methods with confidence and the importance of their research to other students and the public – a final appropriate to the program.
The 2024 first cycle summer cycle start -up camp was a resounding success. For three immersive weeks, aspiring researchers have acquired practical experience in biomedical research, from bench work to the analysis of data to the presentation of their results. Along the way, they established lasting links with their peers and their teachers who spent their time and their expertise on the program.
Students want to particularly thank Steven Frese, Ph.D., and Matthew Bolino for their invaluable training in DNA sequencing techniques and engaging discussions on the science of the microbiome. They also express their sincere gratitude to Juli Perereit, Ph.D., whose unwavering vision and support have made this program possible. Her kindness, his dedication to the success of the students and his inspiring mentoring continue to bring out the best of all those she guides.
Nevada Insbre is pleased to announce that it will offer its fourth cohort this summer, July 21-August. 8, 2025, which will include several of the same exciting opportunities as well as the new updates of the program. The applications are now open and due on April 24. The seats are limited and the first applications are encouraged. If it is accepted, the program is not fresh for students enrolled in NSH establishments and includes the Chamber and the Board of Directors.
About authors
Jose Castillo and Simone Jacot are undergraduate researchers who participated in the summer research program on microbiome. Castillo is a junior specializing in biology at the Nevada State University, and Jacot is a second year student specialized in nutritional sciences at the University of Nevada, Reno.