During this spring’s Wolfpack Citizen Science Challenge, we searched for the bacterial organism Delftia acidovorans around campus and used its “gold gene” to track it down. Delftia also has a unique genetic sequence that may be involved in resistance to an ingredient in common mouthwashes. However, understanding Delftia’s secrets is not simple. We will discuss the genetic complexities of this microbe, what we’ve learned and what we can still learn by studying how some of Delftia’s genes vary in nature.

After the event we’ll have a reprise of our live DNA-extraction demos, as well as robotics demonstrations and other hands-on activities nextdoor in the Hunt Library Creativity Studios.

Curious for more? Visit our previous Wolfpack Citizen Science Challenges.