THE LIFE SCIENTIST UMD BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT NEWS WINTER 2001

FOUR BIOLOGISTS JOIN FACULTY Dr. Andrews Dr. Branstrator Dr. Hrabik Dr. Craig By Linda Holmstrand molecular techniques to identify proteins may hold clues for medical researchers hoping to northern Minnesota setting which offers the controlling gene expression.His current work unlock the secrets of strokes and organs fishing, bow-hunting, biking and camping As a result of the Chancellor’s initiatives to involves the unique proteins expressed in transplants in humans. opportunities that he pursues in his leisure time. enhance Cell & Molecular Biology and hibernating ground squirrels (actually the A native of Chicago,Dr. Branstrator graduated Freshwater Sciences at UMD, plus the need to fill thirteen-lined ground squirrel,also known as the Dr. Andrews was attracted to UMD by the from Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin, two departmental vacancies,the Biology Minnesota “golden gopher”).Using new proximity of the biomedical community, easy then later received a Ph.D. from the University of Department was successful in hiring four new collaboration with researchers on the twin cities Michigan,Ann Arbor. After a postdoctoral faculty members this past year. Dr. Matt Andrews campus and also,the availability of hibernating experience at the Universite de Montreal, he and Dr. Donn Branstrator were hired in the areas animals in Minnesota.Dr. Andrews and his wife spent three years as an assistant professor at of Cell & Molecular Biology and Freshwater Kate and their two children - Sara,age 11 and DePaul University in Chicago,teaching a variety Sciences,respectively. Dr.Tim Craig fills a Ross,age 9 - are adapting nicely to Minnesota. of biology courses while directing graduate position vacated by Anne Hershey and Dr.Tom They are impressed with the school system and students and continuing his own research in Hrabik fills a position vacated by the retirement love the clean air and outdoor recreational areas plankton ecology. Dr. Branstrator's research of Mel Whiteside.These biologists join Dr. Allen around Lake Superior. Already the family has interests center on aquatic food webs, Mensinger, who arrived in January of 2000, as been outfitted with a variety of outdoor particularly those involving zooplankton the newest members of the department. microarray technology that can analyze equipment and can be found regularly on the organisms, tiny shrimp-like animals found in thousands of genes simultaneously, Dr. Andrews local skating rinks and ski slopes. abundance in the Great Lakes as well as some Dr. Matt Andrews came to UMD after 13 and his research staff are able to screen and inland waters.Here at UMD, he is already part of years in the Department of Genetics at North compare the expression of genes from a Sea Grant sponsored program assessing the Carolina State University at Raleigh, where he Dr. Donn Branstrator hibernators with those of non-hibernators.Since "This is just where I want to be," said distribution and productivity of zooplankton in was a tenured associate professor. Dr. Andrews hibernating mammals can slow or stop their Dr. Branstrator when he was asked what western Lake Superior. The recent encroachment has extensive research experience in the use of organ systems for weeks at a time,this research attracted him to UMD. He was referring to our of an exotic cladoceran species Bythotrephes, or 1 (continued on page 2) Image of female spiny water flea from Minnesota Sea Grant Website/exotic species. Hrabik's research experience is from studies in NEW STAFF HIRE north central Wisconsin where he has found correlation between the unique chemical, physical and biological factors of a lake's "BC" the spiny water flea, into some local inland location in the lakes is also a topic for his future research. landscape with fish species On a personal note,Donn has found yet another Dr. Craig is building his research program at UMD number and abundance.Minnesota lakes are reason to be happy about coming to Duluth.He with the assistance of his wife,Dr.Joanne Itami, quite different in their geology, and he is recently announced his engagement to Stacy an adjunct Professor in the Biology department, interested in investigating and characterizing the Crawford, who works in the UMD Admissions who shares his research interests and controlling factors for the diversity of fish as well Office.Donn and Stacy are planning a June collaborates on projects that include genetic as macrophytes,snails and other invertebrates. Julie Smith wedding, then later in the summer a honeymoon approaches and techniques.In the future,they He is also interested in the implications of the on safari in Kenya, where Donn will be finishing a plan to pursue two lines of research - one which presence of rainbow smelt in some northern training course on the limnology of Lake Victoria. studies the factors,especially behavioral factors, Minnesota inland lakes,since there is evidence They will arrive back in Duluth just in time to that regulate insect populations and one which that their introduction has affected populations begin the fall semester classes and activities. elucidates speciation driven by plant-insect of ciscoes,and possibly walleye and other game interactions.They particularly like the mix of fish.Dr. Hrabik is establishing collaborative The Biology Department is pleased to welcome Juline Smith as a Laboratory Services Dr.Tim Craig is experiencing a memorable teaching and research here at UMD.Tim and relationships for his research with area fisheries Coordinator. Julie, who officially started in her first year in Duluth. Not only is he facing the Joanne decided to move to Duluth because of its agencies and is recruiting graduate students.In position on January 1,2001, joins Randy Hedin challenge of new teaching responsibilities and location and the quality of life that they felt was addition he has developed and will teach a in providing laboratory support for the many the set up of his research program here,he is lacking in Phoenix.They and their children,Linda course entitled "Fisheries Ecology" for upper courses offered by the department. In particular, also coping with a broken hip suffered while - age 9,and Paul - age 6,are enjoying their new division students next fall semester. Julie prepares laboratory materials for the upper skating with his children at the UMD ice arena. surroundings in Duluth. Like the other new members of the faculty, division classes.She has a B.S. degree in Biology Dr. Craig, an insect ecologist,left a tenured Dr. Hrabik finds northeastern Minnesota a very and Secondary Science Education from UMD associate professor of zoology position at Arizona Dr. Thomas Hrabik desirable place to live and work.He is, to no and her background includes several years of State University West in Phoenix to join the Dr. Hrabik began his UMD career in January, at one's surprise,an avid fisherman and looks experience as a research technician in the UMD Biology Department faculty. He formerly held the start of this spring semester, when he forward to visiting the Boundar y Waters for School of Medicine.In that position, she most post-doctoral positions at Bucknell University in immediately walked into the Ichthyology class as fishing, canoeing and camping in his leisure recently was involved in a project investigating Pennsylvania and the School of Forestry at his first teaching assignment here.Arriving in time. cardiac muscle cell response to certain types of Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff,as well as midwinter with little preparation time,he had to cancer-fighting agents. a fellowship from Hokkaido University in rely on the Biology department's existing fish The Biology Department Faculty, Staff and Sapporo,Japan. Dr. Craig's research interests collection for laboratory specimens for his class. students are pleased to welcome these new Originally from Grand Rapids,Minnesota,Julie involve plant-insect interactions, specifically flies Thanks to Lyle Shannon and Hollie Collins faculty members and anticipate for each one, a spent a number of years in Phoenix before that induce gall formation in certain plants.He (retired), previous fish biology instructors,he successful and rewarding career at UMD. returning to northern Minnesota.She leads a has spent time in Minnesota at the Cedar Creek found plenty to work with,and the class is going busy family life with her husband Tim,and two Natural History Area where he studied gall well. Dr. Hrabik is a fisheries ecologist and a children, Zach (14),and Rachael (11),and is formation in goldenrod as part of an LTER (Long native of north central Wisconsin; he received his involved in many school and community Term Ecological Research) study. Many bachelor's degree at Stevens Point.He went on Hh activities. Minnesotans are familiar with the small larva or to earn both his M.S. and Ph.D. (1999) degrees "grub" that can be found in galls and are used in Oceanography and Limnology from the as bait for ice fishing. University of Wisconsin,Madison.Most of Dr. 2 STAFF RECOGNITION ANOTHER A newsletter about the Biology department was the Biology Department Gift Account.This NEWSLETTER? the idea of Dr. Mel Whiteside, then Department account is maintained by gifts from alumni and Wh a t ? Head, who chose Helen Hanten to create and others that generously support our cause. In design the Life Scientist; the name was also her addition, newsletters from the previous three idea.(See the "Visit with a Professor Emeritus" years are available through a link from the article in this issue).The first issue,published in Biology Home Page (http://www.d.umn. January of 1987,was a 12 page publication that edu/biology/).Students play a vital role in the included faculty, student and alumni news as well writing of our newsletter - it is both a learning as notes about graduate research activities.An experience and a service commitment to the impressive feature of that first issue was the department.This year, for the first time, we have Alumni section, which contained news notes and a student editor, Megan Kingsley, who was addresses for nearly 150 alumni of the responsible for gathering and editing all of the Randy Hedin Ruth Hemming department! Mrs.Hanten continued as editor of undergraduate articles as well as writing several Linda Holmstrand and the newsletter for 5 more years,until her articles of her own. Megan is a Biology major Two members of the Biology Staff were presented Student Editor Megan Kingsley retirement in 1992.Those early issues were with a minor in Journalism, which suits her with Outstanding Service Awards in accomplished without the use of computers and perfectly for this job. Another major contribution Newsletters are in vogue.I know. I get a lot of acknowledgment of their excellent performance publishing software.Helen relied heavily for is from first year graduate student Charlene them in the mail - from my credit union,my this past year. The recognition included a technical assistance on her husband Paul, who Johnson, who spent considerable time compiling church,our public school system,our local monetary award and an engraved plaque, worked for the Duluth News Tribune,and assisted information and writing the "Graduate Student hospital and a variety of other organizations that presented at a special awards ceremony. with the drafting and layout of the Life Scientist. Profiles".The thanks of the department go to I belong to.As a newsletter editor, I worry about She recalls the hours of measuring and pasting Megan,Charlene and the other students who this. With a profusion of paper begging for time Randy Hedin is an alumnus of the Biology the layout and the manual work of typing and volunteered and participated.Acknowledgments and attention, what can I do to make this news- department,earning both his bachelor's and making everything totally ready for the camera. can be found on the back page of this newsletter letter one that you'll stop and read,instead of master's degrees in Biology from UMD. He was as well as via the "bylines" for the various tossing in the recycle bin? Read on,maybe I can hired in 1997 as a Laboratory Services Thanks to technology, newsletters are now put articles. convince you to spend some time browsing Coordinator. Randy received a special project together more easily. Student writers submit through the Life Scientist. award for maintaining the stockroom and completed articles on a floppy disk or email the The newsletter has become a major outreach providing support for classes for the academic files to the editor. Photos are taken with a digital tool for the Biology department.Through this You're reading this now because you are part of a year 1998-1999,essentially filling two positions, camera or pictures can be scanned onto a medium we hopefully convey who we are, what select group - you have a link to the UMD Biology until the hire of a second laboratory services computer disk. Most of the finished newsletters we've done, and where we're going.We especially Department - you're a student,a former student, coordinator could be completed. are then delivered to UDAC, where they are want to encourage responses from alumni who a graduate, a faculty or staff member, an Ruth Hemming, Executive Secretary of the tabbed,addressed,sorted and mailed. Mailing have left us and gone out into the "real world". administrator or maybe just a friend and department for the last 12 years, was given a labels come from a variety of sources,the largest We'd like to know what you're doing and what supporter. Whatever your role,I think there is continuous service award for her initiative and number, about 1800,from the UMD Alumni your experiences and successes have been.Each something is these pages that will interest you. dedication to that position.Ruth is primarily Office.The College Student Affairs Offices - CSE one of you has a story to tell and it would be Besides, where else can you get a review of the responsible for the smooth management of the CLA and CEHSP - provide addresses for current great if you would share some of that story with major happenings in our department throughout Biology department office,as well as providing Biology students.In addition,the Biology us and the other readers.Many of them are your the last year…people,activities,challenges, clerical support for the faculty and assistance in Department maintains a mailing list of campus former classmates. Please feel free to accomplishments…condensed into only twenty curricular affairs and class scheduling. addresses for other departments,administrators, communicate - by phone,letter or email - with short pages? Seriously, someone suggested that I and interested persons.Annually for the past me or any of the faculty or staff. We hope to write a story about the newsletter to let readers Both Randy and Ruth exemplify work "above and several years,about 2500 newsletters have been hear from you! know how and why we publish the Life Scientist. beyond" the expectations of their job titles.The printed and distributed.The cost per copy is I'll start with some background. department is very fortunate to have their nearly $1.00, including postage,and is borne by services and congratulate them on this well- deserved honor for outstanding service. 3 VISIT WITH A CURRENT FACULTY PROFESSOR EMERITUS husband Paul, who retired from the Duluth News Dr. Conrad Firling is currently on a by Linda Holmstrand Tribune in 1988, still live in their house on GRANTS phased retirement and will conclude Brainerd Avenue and keep a busy schedule of his UMD career at the end of the activities.They recently purchased a "fifth- RECENT 2001-2002 academic year. The wheeler" recreational vehicle and will soon take it & PUBLICATIONS department is currently searching for a on a maiden voyage in preparation for their faculty member with teaching and summer adventure. Their plan is to set up camp research expertise in the area of in Glacier,Yellowstone, or one of the other CURRENT FACULTY GRANTS: developmental biology. western national parks and take seasonal jobs as concessioners.Both Paul and Helen are M.T. Andrews P.I."Genomic Analysis of Cardiac Congratulations to Dr. Merry Jo Oursler, extremely outgoing and Helen has had Function During Hibernation", Biomedical who was recently tenured in the experience as a park naturalist for the UMD Genomics Center Affymetrix Grants Program, Biology Department and promoted to Elderhostel program. 3/19/ 01 - 12/31/01,$9,900. the rank of Associate Professor. Professor Emeritus Helen Hanten The Hantens are experienced world travelers and M. T. Andrews P.I.“Genomic Screening by and Grandchild have visited,besides England, Turkey, Norway, Undergraduates,” Chancellor’s Faculty Small Greece, Israel, Finland,Scotland and Thailand. Grants Program,3/1/01 - 12/31/01,$750. The person selected for this year's feature is Their most recent trip (1999) was to New Helen Hanten, who retired in 1992,then returned Zealand.For many years, Helen has been a M. T. Andrews, Department of Defense AASERT periodically over several years to advise Biology prominent local leader in her church,particularly Award,"Characterization of Cold-Tolerant students,retiring again in 1995.She is one of in the education of deacons,a service Catabolism in Hibernating Mammals," 7/1/97 - eight former UMD Biology Faculty in retirement commitment that she will soon relinquish,to 6/30/01,$85,000. that hold the distinction of professor emeritus. concentrate on other things.In her "spare" time, she likes to read contemporary fiction and enjoys M. T. Andrews, North Carolina Biotechnology Mrs.Hanten had a long and busy career in her being part of a monthly literature discussion Center ARIG Program, "Cloning and 26 years at UMD. Besides teaching courses in group. Characterization of Low-Temperature Lipolytic introductory plant biolog y, non-majors biology Enzymes from a Hibernating Mammal", 1/1/99 - and microbiology, she operated the UMD The Hanten children are grown up and married, 12/31/00,$40,000. greenhouse for several years and conducted but the family is still close-knit.Their son John research on the development and abscission of and his wife Nancy are both geophysicists. They M. T. Andrews, Department of Defense, wild rice grains,research that was basic to the live in Texas with their daughter Kelley, who is 10. "Monitoring Low-Temperature Physiology in emerging industry of paddy-grown wild rice. Kathy (Hanten) Malban is a mortgage loan officer Hibernating Mammals," 3/1/99 - 2/28/01, Mrs.Hanten also maintained a visible presence with Wells Fargo and lives in Duluth with her $96,836. on campus as a UEA representative and as a husband Dave and children Kaley 11,and Jack member of the Faculty Advisory Council for who is 7. The youngest daughter Sue,an avid M. T. Andrews,U.S. Army Research Office, Women. During her stay at UMD she participated gardener and craft person, and her husband "Genetic Control of Carbohydrate Metabolism in in the Study in England Program and was the Scott, also live in Duluth. Paul and Helen have the Heart of a Hibernating Mammal", 7/1/99 - first editor of this newsletter, the Life Scientist, been married more than fifty years,and if their 6/30/03, $270,000. which was created in 1987. current life-style is an indication,will continue to be active for many more.All of us in the Biology M. T. Andrews, Whiteside Institute for Clinical I recently spent a pleasant lunch date with department wish Helen and Paul a continued Research,"Genomic Analysis of Cardiac Function Helen, getting reacquainted and catching up on happy and healthy retirement. during Hibernation," 1/1/01 -12/31/01, the details of her current life. She and her $5,000. 4 M. T. Andrews, Department of Defense AASERT R. P. Axler. R.E.Hicks (Co-PI) and B.J. McCarthy, A. F. Mensinger,“Animal Physiology Equipment,” G. J. Niemi "Boreal Owl: its habitat and prey in Award, "Characterization of Cold-Tolerant “Pathogen and Nutrient Removal by Constructed Biology Department,Spring 2000,$20,000. the Superior National Forest"; Joint funding from Catabolism in Hibernating Mammals," 7/1/97 - Wetlands for treatment of Single Home and the USDA Forest Service and Minnesota 6/30/01, $85,000. Small Community Wastewater Flows,” Minnesota A. F. Mensinger and L. J. Shannon (Co-PIs), Department of Natural Resources; $80,000. Sea Grant,2/1/98-1/31/2001,$80,400. “Data acquisition and analysis units for Life A. Goyal PI,Chancellor's Diversity Grant for Science Laboratories,”Technology Fee Award, G. J. Niemi "Distribution of Canada lynx in the Visiting Scientist in the area of Bioinformatics of R.E.Hicks (PI),“Survival and Virulence of Spring 2000,$35,600. upper Midwestern United States," Joint funding Natural Products,May-June, 2001,$6000. Pathogenic Bacteria within Microbial from USDA Forest Service,Minnesota Communities Attached to Suspended A. F. Mensinger and L. J. Shannon (Co-PIs), Department of Natural Resources,and US Fish A.Goyal (Co-PI with N. Nelson and C. Particles in a Freshwater Estuary,” Minnesota “Wireless connection of PowerLab units,” and Wildlife Service,$77,000. Edwardson) "Forest Products Innovation and Sea Grant Program,3/1/99-1/31/2001, Chancellor Small Grants, Fall 2000,$1,000. Commercialization",USDA-CSREES, PD, July $48,210. M.J. Oursler (PI), J. Regal (co-PI),C.Giulivi, L. 2000-June 2002,$226, 682. A.F. Mensinger (PI),“Chronic neural recording Drewes; Participants: P. Anderson,A.Boman, B. R.E. Hicks, (Co-PI). "LiMNology: AVirtual via Acoustical Telemetry from free swimming Clarke, J. Fitzakerely, A. Goyal,R. Hicks, J. Holy, J. A. Goyal (Co-PI with N.Nelson and C. center for Limnology at the University of fish,” University of Minnesota Grant-in-Aid; Prohaska,G. Trachte,K. Wallace,Center for Edwardson) "Forest Products Innovation and Minnesota",University of Minnesota, Jan,2000-Jan 2001.$25,000. Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Commercialization,." USDA-CSREES, PD; May September 2000-August 2002,$100,000 . Graduate School New Initiatives 1999-April 2001, $255,396. A. F. Mensinger (PI) “In-situ biosensors for inInterdisciplinary Research and R.E.Hicks (PI),M J. Sadowsky, and L. B. monitoring fish physiology and behavior,” Postbaccalaureate Hicks,R.E. (P.I.), Instructional Equipment for a Johnson, “Identifying the Sources of Minnesota Sea Grant,February 2001 to Education Planning Grant. 2nd year funded Freshman Seminar: Northern Stream Coliform Bacteria in Coastal Ecosystems and January 2003, $66,000 direct plus graduate Ecosystems & the Angler, Chancellor’s Faculty Their Relationship to Land Use,” Minnesota student fellowship. M.J. Oursler, (PI) “Breast Cancer Stimulation of Small Grant,2/15-12/15/ 2000,$750. Sea Grant College Program,2/1/2001- Osteolysis,” Department of the Army; 10/1/97- 1/31/2003, $95,460. A. F. Mensinger (Co-PI) “Neural Mechanisms of 9/30/2000,$286,509. R. E.Hicks solicited gifts and donations for the Hearing and Balance,” NIH PPG 51511 S. M. Northern Stream Ecosystems & the Angler course M.R.Karim (PI) "Isolation of Mycobacterium Highstein PI,1999-2004,$25,000. M.J. Oursler (PI),“Mechanisms of Transforming from various companies and manufacturers. To marinum and other pathogens from water & fish Growth Factor Beta Regulation of Tumor date, gifts to the UMD supporting this course population of different lakes," Sea Grant College G. J. Niemi, C. Richards et al "Development of Progresion in Metastatic Cancer,” Department of have exceeded $8,000. Pr o gr a m , July 1,1000 - June 30,20 0 1 , $5000.00. environmental indicators of condition,integrity, the Army, 10/1/2000-9/30/2003,$322,754. and sustainability in the Great Lakes Basin," US R.E. Hicks (Co-PI) “On-site Sewage Treatment M.R. Karim (Co-PI),“Mechanisms of Antiviral Environmental Protection Agency, $6,000,000. M.J. Oursler (PI) “Target Cells for TGF-b Alternatives: Performance, Outreach and Activity by Betulin and its Analogs,” University of Regulation of the Osteoclast Phenotype,” Demonstration,” Legislative Commission on Minnesota Academic Health Center, 7/1/99- G. J. Niemi "Testing efficacy of buffers and Minnesota Medical Foundation,3/1/2000- Minnesota Resources,1999-2001, $550,000. 6/30/2001,$200,000. residual trees at protecting seasonal ponds and 2/28/2001,$12,000. forest songbirds," USDA Forest Service,NC M.R.Karim (Co-PI),“Chemical Extractives from Research Station.$36,000. Birch Bark,”Potlatch Corporation and Minnesota Power, 2/1/99-7/1/2000,$50,000.

Raj Karim, continuation of Bridges Program for Minorities with Dr. Ben Clarke, June 30,2000, $640,000.

(continued on page 6) 5 C. Johnston (PI), J. Pastor and H. Mooers, C.Richards (Co-PI with John Hobie and 12 A.Goyal. 2000. Tribute: Nathan Edward Tolbert “Control of productivity and plant species others); "Key Connections in Arctic Aquatic (1919-1998).ASPP News 27 (6):21-25. segregation by nitrogen fluxes to wetland beaver Landscapes," National Science Foundation, meadows,” National Science Foundation,1997- 1997-2001,$2,989,784. D. Ghoshal and A.Goyal. 2000.Carbon 2000,$600,000. concentration mechanisms in photosynthetic C.Richards, R.Axler, C.Hagely and J. Gunderson; microorganisms. IJ Biochem.& Biophys 37: S. Bridgham (PI), J. Pastor and J. Chen,“Carbon "Assessing and Communicating Risk: A 383-394. and energy flow and plant community response Partnership to Evaluate a Superfund Site on to climate change in peatlands,” National Leech Lake Tribal Lands," U.S. EPA Office of Brown, J.A.,Chua, S.C.,Liu, S.M., Andrews,M.T., Hicks,R.E. and D.A. Pascoe. 2000. A Science Foundation,1997-2001,$1,380,889. Environmental Justice,1997-2001, $249,781. and Vandenbergh, J.G.,2000.Spontaneous comparison of cyanobacterial dominance within mutation in the db gene results in obesity and the picoplankton of the North American Great J. Pastor (PI), Y. Cohen,R.Moen and B. Dewey, C.Richards (Co-PI) "Watershed Effects on diabetes in CD-1 outbred mice.Am. J. Physiol. Lakes estimated by 16S rRNA-based “Moose population cycles,ecosystem properties, Stream Productivity and Water Quality Discharge 278,320-330. hybridizations and direct cell counts. In Exploring and landscape patterns on Isle Royale,” National in Lake Superior Tributary Streams," Minnesota the Great Lakes of the World: Food-web Science Foundation,1998-2003,$300,000. Sea Grant Program,1996-2001, $224,591. Squire, T.L.and Andrews,M.T. 2000. Genetic dynamics,health & integrity, Munawar, M.and R. control of carbon utilization during hibernation: Hecky, eds. J. Pastor (PI) and P.Wolter, “Mapping and C.Richards (PI) "Evaluating Potential mechanistic considerations, in “Life in the Cold” modelling forest change in a boreal landscape,” Reintroduction Sites for Coaster Brook Trout (G.Heldmaier, S. Klaus,M.Klingenspor, Eds.) Caple,R., M.R.Karim, N.C.L.Minh and Luu Duc NASA,2000-2003,$349,841. within the Lake Superior Basin," 1998-2001, Springer-Verlag, Berlin.325-337. Huy. 2000. Mallotus Philippinensis against J. Schuldt, L. Johnson and C.Richards, $58,571. Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 in Vitro: Biological "Protocols for Selecting Classification Systems D. K.Branstrator and C.M.Holl, 2000. assay and Isolation of Compounds. Tap Chi Hoa and Reference Conditions: A Comparison of B. Munson, R.Axler, C.Hagely, G.Host, C. Planktivory by bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) on hoc, vol.37, No.2,95-ff. Methods," U.S. EPA STAR Grant Program,3/2001 Richards and G. Merrick, "Training Water Science Leptodora kindti in a small North American lake. - 2/2004,$747,404. Technicians for the Future - A National On-line Hydrobiologia, vol.437, 101-106. Akbulut,Simge, M.R. Karim, M.C.Thompson, Curriculum using Advanced Technologies and G.N.K Mbuy and M.A.Rashid. 2000.Plant C.Richards (PI) L. Johnson and G.Host, Real-Time Data,” National Science Foundation,” Fernandes,G.W., P.W. Price, S. J. Goncalves- originated anti-infectious substances from four "Development and Evaluation of Multi-scale 2001-2004,$600.000. Alvim, T. P. Craig and D.Yanega.2000.Response continents.Environmental Toxicology, Mechanistic Indicators of Regional Landscapes," of the galling insect Aciurina trixa Curran to host Cheminformatics and Bioinformatics, Vol. 2,37 U.S. EPA STAR Grant Program,1997-2001, L.J. Shannon (CoPI) and K. Yin, “Acoustical plant quality; Annals of the Entomological Society ff. $925,000. mapping of Lake Superior Zooplankton,” of Brazil, vol.29, 423-432. Minnesota Sea Grant,1998-2000, $65,000 A. F. Mensinger and M. Deffenbaugh.2000. L. Johnson, C.Richards and P. Schoff; Craig, T. P., J. K.Itami, C.Schantz, W. G. Anechoic aquarium for ultrasonic neural "Environmental Factors that Influence Amphibian Abrahamson,and J. D. Horner. 2000.The telemetry,” Phil. Trans.R.Soc. Lond.B vol.355, Community Structure and Health," U.S. EPA FACULTY PUBLICATIONS: influence of host plant variation and intraspecific 1305-1308. Agency STAR Grant Program,1997-2001, competition on oviposition preference in the host $498,338. races of Eurosta solidaginis, Ecological Pearson, C.W.,and G.J. Niemi. 2000.Effects of Entomology, vol.25,7-18. within-stand habitat and landscape patterns on avian distribution and abundance in northern A.S. Rishi,N.D. Nelson and A. Goyal. 2001. Minnesota; pp 81-95 in S.G.Conrad (Ed.) Genetic modification for improvement of Populus. “Disturbance in boreal forest ecosystems: human Physiol.Mol.Biol.Plants, 7:7-21. impacts and natural processes.” USDA Forest Service ,North Central Research Station,GTR A.Goyal. 2000.Ed Tolbert and his love for ND-209. science: a journey from sheep ranch continues. 6 Photosynthesis Research 63:1-5. Hanowski, J.M., P.T.Wolter, and G.J. Niemi. 2000. FROM THE between 400-800 student majors and pre- between 7 and 8 students per year. The largest Effects of riparian buffers on landscape professional students each year during the past proportion of these graduates (32%) now work characteristics: implications for breeding birds. DEPARTMENT HEAD decade. for various federal,state,tribal,county, or local by Randall E. Hicks International conference on riparian ecology and natural resource or environmental agencies. management in multi-land use watersheds. • The number of undergraduate students Twenty-two percent obtained teaching positions American Water Resources Association : 523-528. graduating from our department has increased in small liberal arts colleges,community colleges, steadily since1989 (>180% increase). Now, or secondary schools. An equal proportion of Hanowski, J.M., D. Christian, and G.J. Niemi. 2000. more than 80 students graduate each year with these graduates entered Ph.D. programs or Landscape requirements of sharp-tailed grouse in B.S. or B.A.degrees in Biology or Cell Biology. medical schools. Approximately 12% entered Minnesota,USA. Wildlife Biology 6:257-263. Women graduates account for about one-half of industry or consulting , and an additional 12% these degrees. are employed as technicians in university Winding,B., Misander, H.,Sveigaard,C., laboratories. Therkildsen, B.,Jakobsen, M.,Overgaard, T., • Only 8% of undergraduate students graduating Oursler, M.J., Foged,N.K.2000."Human breast Randall Hicks from our department in1998-99 reported being • During the past decade, graduate students have cancer cell-induced angiogenesis,recruitment,and Department Head unemployed or not continuing their education been first authors or co-authors on 50 papers activation of osteoclasts in bone". J Cancer after graduation. published or currently under review in peer- During the past several years,the cost,funding Research and Clinical Oncology vol.126, 631-640. reviewed scientific journals. and accountability of higher education • Only two undergraduate students from UMD institutions,teacher salaries,and the productivity Cohen, Y., J. Pastor, and T. Vincent. 2000. Nutrient have ever won prestigious Barry Goldwater • During the past 11 years,our department’s of faculty and students at universities have been cycling in evolutionary stable ecosystems. Scholarships; both students majored in Biology faculty members had more than 150 research widely discussed in the press,legislatures, and in Evolutionary Ecology Research 6: 719-743. or Cell Biology and won these scholarships within and instructional grants funded which when private circles. Rightly so! Recently, even the the last two years. combined totaled more than $14 million dollars. Governor of Minnesota suggested that the Weltzin, J.F., J. Pastor, C.Harth, S.D. Bridgham,K. salaries of many university professors in this Updegraff, and C.T. Chapin.2000. Response of bog • More than 70 different courses are currently • Combined,new research grants awarded to state were higher than his own. and fen plant communities to warming and water- offered by the Department of Biology. Almost faculty members in our department from sources table manipulations. Ecology 81: 3464-3478. 3,000 students enroll in these classes each year. outside the university averaged between $0.6 Last month,the Department of Biology was and $1.2 million dollars each year. These reviewed by a panel of distinguished educators Bridgham, S.D.,K. Updegraff,and J. Pastor. 2001. • During the past decade,200 students have research grants provided employment for and research scientists from public and private A comparison of nutrient availability indices along completed a research experience course and Minnesotans, training opportunities for many universities in Georgia,Massachusetts, Utah,and an ombrotrophic-minerotrophic gradient in more than 350 students have participated in an undergraduate and graduate students,and Wisconsin.As part of this process,our Minnesota wetlands.Soil Science Society of undergraduate teaching experience. sometimes summer salary for our faculty department completed a self-study and America Journal 65: 259-269. members. developed a document for these reviewers based • During the last 10 years,the number of on research about our productivity in instruction Breneman, D., C.Richards and S. Lozano.2000. undergraduate students participating in research • Faculty members in our department published and research. Many interesting facts about our Environmental influences on benthic community projects outside class has steadily grown from over 200 peer-reviewed scientific papers during department,faculty, and students were structure in a Great Lakes embayment. J. Great about 20 to over 40 students per year (a 135% the past 11 years,an average of 19 publications discovered. I would like to share just a few Lakes Res.26(3): 287-304. increase). Many of these students have per year, or 1-2 papers per faculty member per examples with you. presented their research findings at local, year. Gary Cholwek, J. Bonde,X.Li, C. Richards and K. regional, and national scientific meetings Did you know that? – Yin.2000. Processing RoxAnn sonar data to including presentations at the U.S. Capitol. • Besides instructing their classes and operating improve its categorization of lake bed surficial research laboratories,Biology faculty members • The UMD Biology program is one of the largest substrates.Marine Geophysical Researches.21(5). • The Biology Graduate Program has granted review scientific manuscripts and grant proposals UMD undergraduate programs, having served eighty-five M.S. degrees since1988, graduating for various national organizations,serve on local, (continued on page 8) 7 regional,and national panels or committees, research laboratories and employ people. They GRADUATE STUDENT GRADUATE STUDENT volunteer as editors of scientific journals,and act discover new things that were never known as consultants to industry and government before.The ‘products’they help create are new COMMENCEMENT PROFILES by Charlene Johnson agencies. ideas useful to society, important scientific The University of Minnesota Graduate papers,and well-trained students who are Commencement was held on Thursday, May 11, Jennifer Schreiber, a research assistant in Dr. • Our faculty and staff members are committed to prepared to succeed in the world and 2000,at Romano Gymnasium on the UMD Hicks’lab, is studying the viability and community service and education. Their professionals when they leave UMD. Unlike many campus,with Dr.John Pastor, recipient of the first invasiveness of Salmonella typhimurium in combined efforts support local elementary and businesses,however, we impart our acquired Chancellor’s Award for Distinguished Research, aquatic environments. She is a graduate of secondary schools,educational programs for the knowledge to students and share it with society. delivering the commencement address.Dr.Pastor Concordia College and hails from Wyoming, public,and local and regional environmental Yes, accountability is important.Our ‘small is a Biology Department professor and senior Minnesota. Jennifer plans to graduate with her organizations. businesses’only succeed if they are productive research associate at the Natural Resources M.S. in Cell Biology under the advice of Dr. and create ‘goods and services’that are valued. Research Institute.The Master of Science Randall Hicks. • In 1988,the Department of Biology had 13 full- degrees in Biology were awarded to: time,tenured or tenure-track faculty members. We continue to be a department that emphasizes Matthew Olson is a Graduate Teaching Assistant Now, the department has 16 tenured or tenure- undergraduate education.I see our program as a Simge Akbulut (GTA) for General Biology, Experimental track members and 3 full-time Instructors. blend of high-quality undergraduate instruction, Gaea E.Crozier Immunology, and Microbial Ecology while significant research programs,strong graduate Steven C.Garske studying the effectiveness of alternative on-site • No faculty member’s salary in the UMD training, and outreach of biological knowledge Michael Gillespie wastewater treatment systems in removal viral Department of Biology exceeds the Governor’s and understanding. Our departmental strength in Scott P. McGovern organisms from fecal material under the advice salary. In fact, UMD’s pay scale for its faculty research continues to feed undergraduate as well Jean M. Mengelkoch of Dr. Randall Hicks.He hopes that his research members ranks 14th compared to 17 peer as graduate research opportunities. Positive Kay M. Rezanka will lead to a solution to the growing problems in institutions. changes are continually occurring here. I am Jay O.Sandal small lakeshore communities that utilize excited about the direction our department is Aubie Shaw ineffective septic systems.He is a graduate of Faculty members in our department,as in most taking.We hope you are as well after reading Tamara A.Swanso UMD and hopes to obtain his PhD after finishing universities,are not unlike people operating this year’s issue of the Life Scientist. the masters program in Biology in the spring of small businesses.They obtain funding that run 2002.

Kari Dresback-Thralow graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth in May 2000, with a B.S. degree in Cell Biology. She immediately entered the Biology masters program at UMD under the supervision of Dr. Arun Goyal. Her thesis project is on the use and manipulation of plant life to remediate toxins (phytoremediation).

Ayuko Kassell is studying the potential use of hybrid poplar in phytoremediation of Graduate Students Front to Back and Left to Right: trichloroethylene (TCE). She is a graduate of the Charlene Johnson, Kari Dresback-Thralow, University of Wisconsin-Madison with degrees in Ayuko Kassel, Christie Miller,Jennifer Milan, both Zoology and Japanese.She plans to receive Christian Matson, Jennifer Schreiber, Matt Olsen, her M.S. in Biology in the Fall of 2001. Ayuko is Matt Thompson, Mike Callahan, Mark Pranckus, also under the wing of Dr. Arun Goyal and has Brady Mattsson, Matt Roforth been a GTA in General Biology during the past year. 8 Mike Callahan, a Florida Institute of Technology Charlene Johnson, a graduate of UMD, is David Vandermuelen, a graduate of Michigan native has a degree in Marine Biology and working with Dr. David Schimpf on the potential Technological University, is busy drafting his Molecular Biology. He currently is working with Dr. vegetation composition of a wetland created from thesis on the plant litter quality and Allen Mensinger on nerve regeneration in a dredged sediment in the Duluth-Superior harbor decomposition in northern peatlands.He has freshwater teleost Stizostedian vitreum by investigating the viability of the seed bank been a GTA for Gene-ral Biology I and II as well (Percidae). Mike is a GTA in Human Anatomy and present in such sediments.During the spring as Ecology Laborator y. David is a Water Resource Biology and Society. At the 29th Annual Society semester, Charlene could be found creating a Science student under the advisement of Dr. for Neuroscience Meeting, he presented a poster seedling herbarium of wetland plants grown from John Pastor and hopes to finish his M.S. in session on the cutaneous receptor density in the seeds collected at local wetlands to use as a John Wallace received his B.S. in Biology in Biology in the fall of 2001.After graduate school, Atlantic stingray: sexual dimorphisms and reference for plants grown from the experimental 1986 from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. he hopes to work in the water quality division of functional significance during mating. Mike hopes dredged sediments.She is currently at GTA in After working for five years as a microbiologist in a private or government agency. to earn his PhD in nerve regeneration on the General Biology II and enjoys spending time with a pharmaceutical company, he taught biology in electrosensory system of an elasmobranch after her husband, Jeff,in the vast wilderness of the public schools for nine years, both in Matt Thompson is anticipating the end of his he finishes with his M.S. in Biology in the fall of northern Minnesota. Phoenix,Arizona. His thesis research,under the graduate career this spring as he wraps up his 2002. direction of Dr.Timothy P. Craig, will examine project on the “Comparison of Betulin and Christina Miller received her B.S. in Biology in preference performance linkage in a bruchid Allobetulin-lactone to Acyclovir on Herpes Jennifer Milan is busy working with Dr. Lucinda 2000 from the University of Minnesota Duluth. beetle native to the Sonoran Desert. Simplex Virus Type II glycoprotein C synthesis and Johnson on the behavior of lar val amphibians in She entered the graduate program the last fall, virus infected cell cycling”.While working under relation to differences in canopy cover, amount of and is working with Dr. Gerald Niemi on the Matthew Roforth is wrapping up his career as a the advisement of Dr. Raj Karim,Matt has been a PAR and UV-B radiation,and understory effects of residential and commercial graduate student at UMD in the summer of GTA for General Biology I and II,Plant Biology, vegetation in both terrestrial and aquatic habitats developments on forest birds.During the last 2001.Matt received his B.S. in Biology with a Animal Biology, Microbiology, Plant Biochemistry to determine the significance of habitat on the year, Christie was a GTA for General Biology II minor in chemistry in 999 from Bemidji State and Molecular Biology, and Histology. While gross malformations recently found in frogs. and also served as a student lab coordinator. University in Bemidji, Minnesota. The summer Matt’s long-term goals are to become a These malformations are hypothesized to be before entering graduate school at Duluth he was physician,he will spend this coming summer as attributed to development in the larval stage. Chris A.Mrozinski received her BS in Biology in charge of setting up the biotech initiative a UPS driver, collecting “Hamms”beer Jennifer is a research assistant at NRRI working with a minor in Environmental Science in May laboratory on the campus under the supervision paraphernalia,and reflecting on his spring break on a project entitled “Effects of forest 1992 from Rennselaer Polytechnic Institute in of Dr. Goyal and Dr. Nelson. In the fall of 1999 trip to London and Paris. fragmentation on community structure and Troy, NY. Upon graduation,she was he entered the graduate program under the metapopulation dynamics of amphibians”.She is commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army supervision of Dr. Goyal. His thesis research is Brady Mattson is also anticipating the end of his a graduate of Northland College in Ashland, as a Chemical Officer for an Attack Helicopter on effects of glucocorticoids on the replication of graduate career this spring as he finishes his Wisconsin where she earned her undergraduate Battalion,Platoon Leader for a Smoke Platoon, HSV-1. He is a veteran GTA of General Biology I. thesis work on the relationships between habitat degrees in Biology and Mathematics. She hopes and Environmental Liason. Upon completion of and nesting ecology of forest songbirds under to complete her M.S. in Biology in Fall of 2002. her military obligation, she spent 18 months Lisa Belmonte is working with Dr. Gerald Niemi the advice of Dr. Gerald Niemi.Brady is happily working various temporary assignments helping on the habitat use of boreal owls at the married to his wife,Cara, and is planning to to clean up superfund sites and brownfields. In landscape scale during the breeding season begin his PhD in the fall of 2001.Brady’s hopes 1996,she worked as a Biological Observer in the through the use of radio-collars and for the future are to work for an educational commercial fishing industry in Alaska. She is radiotelemetry. Lisa is a graduate of Black Hills institution or perhaps the Nature Conservancy, currently studying how herbivory and planktivor y State University and hails originally from West St. but he will be spending the next summer field affect the structures of aquatic food webs and Paul,Minnesota.Lisa is a GTA in Human season extending his research in Aitkin County, the nutrients that cycle through them, under the Anatomy and hopes to finish her research in MN. joint supervision of Dr. Andrew Klemer and John December 2001. Pastor.

(continued on page 10) 9 Anne Gingery received her B.S. in Biology in Antoinette Lamkin earned a B.S. degree in 1991 from the University of Minnesota Duluth. Biology and a B.A. degree in Psychology in 1998 Anne worked as a research scientist at the from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities.She OUTSTANDING Natural Resources Research Institute from 1991- spent her summers conducting research with GRADUATE TA AWARD 1996. Subsequently, she worked as a research professors in the Psychology and Pharmacology reviewer and scientific database programmer at Departments as well as the School of Medicine. The Biology Department's selection for the the Environmental Protection Agency from 1996- She investigated topics as diverse as (1) familial 1998. Anne began work part time on her MS eye tracking dysfunction as a marker for schizo- Outstanding Graduate Teaching Award for the degree with Dr.John Pastor in 1992.Her project phrenia and (2) a murine model of susceptibility 1999-2000 academic year is Mary Karst. was concerned with nutrient cycling in compost to immunologically mediated fatigue.Since Fall Mary is a native of Fergus Falls,MN and systems.In 1998,Anne began working on her 1999 she has pursued her M.S. degree with Dr. received her B.S. degree in Biology from UMD Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology with L. R.Drewes,Head,Biochemistry and Molecular in 1997.As a teaching assistant,Mary taught Dr. Merry Jo Oursler. Anne's thesis research is Biology Department,UMD School of Medicine. laboratories for General Biology and concerned with the effects of Transforming Her thesis research entails identifying and Developmental Biology classes.Mary's Growth Factor - beta (TGF-fl) on osteoclast characterizing a new monocarboxylate transporter teaching skills were put to the test this past survival and the related signal transduction (MCT7) in rat brain. year as she was hired as a full-time biology pathways by which TGF-fl signaling occurs in the instructor at Mesabi Range Community College osteoclast. Christian Matson received his B.S. in Biology in Virginia,MN.There she has taught a variety and Chemistry in 1996 from Northland College in Cory Kending received his bachelors degree in Ashland,WI. After graduating, he spent three of courses including Microbiology, Biochemistry from Knox College in Galesburg, IL. years working as a chemist for Abbott Environmental Science,Contemporary Issues During his summers there he interned in a plant Laboratories in Chicago,IL. He then entered the of Biology and Basic Human Biology. Mary's physiology lab studying the heat shock response graduate program at UMD in the spring of 2000 plans are to finish her thesis at UMD this in barley. He then worked for Howard Hughes under the supervision of Dr. Lester Drewes. His summer and then to find a college teaching Mary Karst receives the Medical Institute before coming to UMD. Under research is on the role of monocarboxylate position again,an experience she really the supervision of Dr. Giulivi,Cory began his Outstanding Graduate Teaching transporters in the blood brain barrier. enjoys.Long-range plans are uncertain,but Award from Director of Grad u a t e thesis research on the role of nitric oxide she says she may go back to research after a synthase in mitochondria. Mark Pranckus received his B.S. in Biology in few years. Congratulations,Mary, on your Studies Dr. Da v i d Schimpf. 1996 from Indiana University. He worked for an award and best of luck in your career. Brendan Keough received his B.S. in ecological restoration company before starting Biochemistry/Molecular Biology in December of his graduate program in 1998 with Dr. Carl 1996 from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Richards. His thesis research is on woody debris Wisconsin.After working as a research assistant function and aquatic invertebrates in at Marquette University for one year, he entered southeastern Minnesota streams. the graduate program in Biology at the University of Minnesota Duluth in December of 1997 Aubie Shaw received her B.S. in Biology in 1998 under the supervision of Dr. Randall Hicks.His from the University of Minnesota.She thesis research investigates the nucleic acid immediately began work on her M.S. in Biology compositions of picoplankton in great lakes on under the advisement of Dr. Merry Jo Oursler at three continents,with more extensive analysis the University of Minnesota. She received her focused on an unusual microbial group,the M.S.,titled "Metastatic Breast Cancer: Regulation Archaea. of Osteoclast Differentiation by Growth Factors", in 2000. Currently, she is working on her Ph.D. in Biochemistry, also under the advisement of Dr. Oursler.Aubie is examining the molecular mechanism by which apoptosis is regulated by tumor necrosis factor in osteoclasts.

10 SIGMA XI POSTER EXHIBIT 2001

Sigma Xi is a scientific research society with an international membership of scientists and engineers, who represent colleges and universities, government laboratories and industr y research centers.The Society publishes the American Scientist as well as awarding grants to researchers and sponsoring a variety of programs supporting science education,science policy and the public understanding of science.

This past year, the Duluth chapter of Sigma Xi was one of 10 top chapters in the nation awarded a Certificate of Excellence for exceptional chapter activity. In February, the UMD chapter of Sigma Xi held a four day poster exhibit Sigma Xi Presenters (L to R): Durba Ghoshal, in the atrium of the School of Medicine to Ayuko Kassel and Paul Salo present recent research information to the local scientific community. Exhibits featured researchprojects in the areas of biology, “Glycoprotein Expression in Betulin- and “Variability in Species Richness among Four chemistry and medicine.Best Poster Awards were Acyclovir- Treated Herpes Simplex Virus-2 Taxonomic Groups in North Temperate Lakes with given for Undergraduate Students (Crystal Infected Vero Cells”. Peter Keyel, B. Clarke and Varying Chemical Characteristics and Stream Grund, Peter Keyel,Sharon Kunkel and Bridget Raj Karim. Connectivity”. T. Hrabik, B.K.Greenfield, T. Kratz, Soderberg); Graduate Student Brendan Keough D. Lewis A. Pollard and K.A. Wilson. and Post Doc Durba Ghoshal. The following “Inhibition of Epstein-Barr Virus by Triterpenoid poster exhibits were presented by Biology Betulin Diphosphate and Uvaol”. M.Amjad,R.M. “Genetics,Experience and Host Plant Preference Department faculty and students: Carlson, P. Krasutsky and M.R.Karim. in Eurosta solidaginis: Implications for Host “ATPase activity associated with the DIC pump in Shifts and Speciation”. T.P. Craig and J.K.Itami. “The Effects of Azadirachta indica Aqueous the inner chloroplast envelope of Dunaliella Extracts on Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2, tertiolecta”. D. Ghoshal, S. Zhou,K. Wallace and “Presence and Phylogenetic Affiliation of Archaeal Bacteria,and Yeast”.C.Grund, P. Keyel, S. Kunkel, Arun Goyal. Nucleic Acids from Picoplankton of Great Lakes”. “Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF- b) is An B. Soderberg and M.R.Karim. B.P. Keough and R.E.Hicks. Autocrine Survival Factor for Osteoclasts”.A. “Effects of Glucocorticoids on the Replication of Gingery, D. Pascoe,A.Shaw, L. Yunker, J. Holy and “Effect of Triterpenoid Compounds and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1)”.M. “TNF-alpha Rapidly Induces Osteoclast Apoptosis M.J. Oursler. Polyethylene Amine Derivatives of Betulin against Roforth, D. Ghoshal, S. Basak,R. Karim and A. by Direct Activation of Effectors and Suppression Human Pathogenic Candida Species”. Venu Nayar Goyal. of Survival Pathways”.A. Gingery, A.Shaw, J. Holy “Stimulatory Growth Factors Overcome Inhibition and Raj.Karim and M.J. Oursler. of Osteoclast Differentiation by GM-CSF”.A. “Potential Use of Hybrid Poplar in Shaw, M.Jakobsen, B. Winding and M.J. Oursler. Phytoremediation of Trichlorethylene”.A.Kassel, A.Rishi, D. Ghoshal,N.Nelson and A.Goyal.

11 COMMENCEMENT T.O. ODLAUG AWARD B.S. Biology Degrees Awarded by Becky Bolstad 2000 EIiott R.Adams Erin S. Medin David P. Law Bjorna M.Amundsen Kristin K.Mellgren Heather A. LeClaire The T.O. Odlaug Award is given out yearly in honor UMD’s 100th Undergraduate Commencement Todd E.Amunrud Stephen D. Menning Jonathan C. Lenz of long time biology professor and department was held on Saturday, May 13,2000,at the Daniel B. Andretta Mary L.Moe Mikkie L.Malloy head,Dr. Theron O. Odlaug. The award is given to Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center. Suzanne L.Baumann Daniel J. Munt Ryan J. McCarty an outstanding biology student who shows strong The commencement address was delivered by Sonja M.Bjerk Benjamin D. Nelson Erin S. Medin leadership qualities and service to the U.S. Representative James L. Oberstar, Chisholm Kathryn June Boucher Michael P. Newfield Kristin K.Mellgren department.A reference book of the recipient’s native and long-time UMD supporter, currently Kelly A.Bredahl Shaun T. O'Keefe Stephen D. Menning choice is the award. serving his 13th term representing Minnesota’s Lionel R.Brounts Eva R. Olson Mary L.Moe Eight Congressional District. Oberstar was also Gerald S. Buntin Matthew R.Olson Daniel J. Munt This year’s T.O. Odlaug Award recipient is Rachel awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree at Kate Ann Carlson Robyn L. Pederson Benjamin D. Nelson Makarrall. Makarrall is currently taking some the ceremony. More than 725 students and 100 Vincent J. Carlson Christina M. Peloquin Michael P. Newfield time off school and working as a horticultural faculty members participated.The list of Biology Ricci A.CasaDeCalvo David K. Petersen Shaun T. O'Keefe technician.She is looking into a few graduate degrees conferred also includes those completed Sarah A.Como Jodi A. Peterson Eva R.Olson schools,including the University of Michigan Ann during August of 1999 and December of 1999. Kelly L.Davidson Jeffrey A. Romfo Matthew R.Olson Arbor. Upon entering, she may pursue biological Jennifer Lynn Dickmann Brian J. Ross Robyn L. Pederson illustration,animal behavior, or possibly another B.A.Biology Degrees Awarded Paul E.Drevnick Kelly D. Runke Christina M. Peloquin avenue of biology. Makarrall on her years at Deanna S. Christenson Russell A.Dylla Jeffrey Bruce Rykken David K. Petersen UMD: “It has been a stressful four years, but I John P. Juaire Jennifer E. Elijah Jason E.Salo Jodi A. Peterson really appreciate everything the faculty did for Jessica E.Musch Rebbecca A.Flinn Vanessa T. Schmidt Jeffrey A.Romfo me. They really inspired me.They are great Paul A.Olson Gary W. Fuerstenberg Teresa M. Scholtes Brian J. Ross people to get to know and [they] welcomed me Kara L. Pickering James A.Goblirsch Patrick J. Sherman Kelly D. Runke to the school.” Stephanie J. Sandberg Shayna Gotvaslee Jesse P. Shuck Jeffrey Bruce Rykken Patrick D. Stangl Jeffrey J. Grabow Laurie S. Steen Jason E. Salo Brittany S. Graham Christian M.Sutter Vanessa T. Schmidt B.S. Cell Biology Degrees Awarded Nicholas A.Haglund Sarah J. Syria Teresa M.Scholtes Kathryn J. Boucher Barbara L. Herring Tara L. Terho Patrick J. Sherman Tana J. Carolus Jay D. Hildenbrand David J. Thoen Jesse P. Shuck Rachael J. Derby Lucas H.Hintermeister Kristopher J. Uber Laurie S. Steen Kari L. Dresback Charles W. Hitchcock Michael A. Vacek Christian M.Sutter Sarah L.Elfering Michael J. Hoffman Mary Jo Vierkant Sarah J. Syria Jonathan P. Erickson Marni D. Hogen Christopher J.Warneke Tara L. Terho Jamie L.Fort Rhonda S. Horstman Jessica B.Wubbels David J. Thoen Sean P. Garrity Andrew A.Jacobson Melanie L.Yrjo Kristopher J. Uber Jennifer L. Klobuchar Charlene C. Johnson Laurie A. Yunker Michael A. Vacek Matthew S. Lehnert Jesse M. Knapp Michael J. Hoffman Mary Jo Vierkant Brett A.Lindberg Melanie A. Lamprecht Marni D. Hogen Christopher J.Warneke Frank M.Modich David P. Law Rhonda S. Horstman Jessica B.Wubbels Sara J. Ravenscroft Heather A. LeClaire Andrew A.Jacobson Melanie L.Yrjo Ryen C. Tripp Jonathan C. Lenz Charlene C. Johnson Laurie A. Yunker Kathren F.Tuck Mikkie L.Malloy Jesse M. Knapp Liisa K. Valppu Ryan J. McCarty Melanie A. Lamprecht

12 OUTSTANDING PRE-VETERINARY TURCOTTE T.O ODLAUG FRESHMAN BIOLOGY MEDICINE AWARD SCHOLARSHIPS SCHOLARSHIP AWARD by Sharon Kunkel by Tara Hoff by Becky Bolstad by Molly K. Martin The Pre-Veterinary Medicine Award was first The Turcotte Scholarship is given in honor of Ed The year 2000 was first year the T.O. Odlaug offered in 2000.It is sponsored by the pre- and Alma Turcotte and is awarded to motivated, Scholarship was awarded. The $1000 award is veterinary medicine advisor, Dr. Reza-ul (Raj) high achieving biology and cell biology majors given annually to two UMD biology students who Karim and his family in honor and memory of his with demonstrated financial need. Two $1000 are in good academic standing and present both need and merit. The 1999-2000 recipients were father. A plaque and monetary award is given to scholarships are given each year. Recent winners Sarah L.Huth and Barbara (Isaacson) Lester. a sophomore or junior with a minimum GPA of include Venu Nayar from Savage, MN,and Ann 3.4 who plans to attend veterinary school. Torborg from St. Joseph,Minnesota. Sarah Huth hails from Bloomington,Minnesota, Jeremy Erickson Applicants must have knowledge of the veterinary Venu is a biology major who is involved in the and is a junior biology major with a chemistry profession and have experience working with a Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program minor. After graduation, she plans to move to San This year’s winner of the Outstanding First Year veterinarian and caring for animals. They are here at UMD. She is working on an anti-fungal Diego,California,and take a year off school. Biology Student Award is Jeremy Erickson. also judged based on leadership skills, drug against Candida yeast under advisor Dr. Raj Later, she plans to attend the University of California San Diego Medical School,and Currently, the twenty-year-old Duluth native is community involvement, work experience,and Karim. Venu is also involved in SERVE, a specialize in obstetrics.Says Huth,“I enjoy finishing up his sophomore year as a biology extracurricular activities. volunteer organization at UMD. This past year she helping people and taking care of those who major.Jeremy said he was grateful to win the was named senior director.Venu hopes to Raku Petterson was the first recipient of this attend medical school in a couple of years to need assistance.I adore babies and the miracle award and more than a little surprised. “I didn’t of birth fascinates me. I feel that a position in award.She intends to finish up her biology become a physician. even know I was up for it,” he said. obstetrics would suit me and that society would degree next year.Petterson hopes to apply to the be able to benefit from my work as well." Ann is also a biology major, currently in her third The Outstanding First Year Biology Student Award veterinarian school at the University of year at UMD. She is president-elect for the Pre- is given to an incoming freshman that has Minnesota,and ultimately would like to become Barbara Lester is from Ackly, Minnesota,and is a Vet Club this year, and was previously the excelled in the introductory biology courses. In a small-animal veterinarian.She currently is a senior biology major. Growing up on a small farm secretary. She has also been a math tutor and is addition to the award itself,the student also volunteer at both the City of Duluth Animal has shaped her career goals. After graduation, involved in the Best Buddies program at UMD. In receives $100.A student can become eligible to Shelter and at the Damiano Center. she would like to attend veterinary school and addition,Ann is a tour guide for the Admissions become a “mixed animal” veterinarian.Says receive the award if he or she has a high number Office.She hopes to attend veterinary school to Lester,“Animals are my passion.I find it very of total points from both the lecture and become a veterinarian specializing in small fulfilling to be able to provide a better quality of laboratory portions of the introductory courses. animals.Congratulations to both of them! life for them. I want to devote my life to providing Students must also be recommended by their care to the pets of today’s families.By preventing teaching assistant. To earn this recommendation, and treating disease in my future patients,I will the student not only has to get good grades,but not only improve their lives, but also their owner’s also demonstrate an enthusiastic attitude lives as well.” towards biology, show leadership in the classroom settings, and have a good understanding of general concepts.

Although winning this award was an honor for Jeremy, he says it hasn’t really affected his life too much. Like many students, Jeremy isn’t quite sure what he’ll do after he graduates.Currently, The PreVeterinary Award is presented to Turcotte Scholarship Award winners Ann Torberg he plans to go to graduate school. Raku Peterson by Dr. Raj Karim and Venu Nayar Congratulations, Jeremy, and good luck in the Barbara Lester and Sarah Huth are pictured with future! Mrs.Lucille Odlaug 13 UROP AWARDS The recipients of the Spring The winners of the Fall 2000 by Molly K. Martin 2000 UROP award from the UROP award from the University of Minnesota University of Minnesota The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Duluth are: Duluth are: Program (UROP) is an excellent way to involve students in the research process.It is designed to Shilpa Gupta Crystal Grund Andrea Michael allow undergraduates the chance to work on Major: Biology Major: Cell Biology Major: Biology actual research projects under the guidance of a "Glycerol Synthesis for Possible Elimination of "Antibacterial Effects of Azadirachta indica "Influence of Dietary Phytochemicals on faculty member. Students who receive this award Aflatoxin in Plants" Extracts on Escherichia coli, Streptococcus Chemotherapy of Melanoma" gain valuable first hand knowledge into the Sponsor: Arun Goyal pyrogenes and Staphylococcus aureus" Sponsor: Jon Holy researching process. Sponsor: Raj Karim Dan Kamben In order to be eligible for the UROP award a Major: Biochemistry/Molecular Biology Shilpa Gupta Venu Nayar student must be enrolled in a baccalaureate or "Assessment of the Ecological Risk of Endocrine Major: Biology Major: Biology pre-baccalaureate program in any of the Disruptors" "Glycerol Synthesis for Possible Elimination of "Determination of Molecular Mechanism of participating colleges at any of the four University Sponsor: Arun Goyal Aflatoxin in Plants" Polyethyleneimine Derivatives of Betulin against of Minnesota campuses.A faculty member from Sponsor: Arun Goyal Candida Species" any area of interest,college,or even from another Joseph Preusser Sponsor: Raj Karim University of Minnesota campus may serve as a Majors: Geology and Biology Belissa Ho UROP sponsor. The sponsors not only gain the "Intrastratal solution of heavy minerals in Major: Biology Sarah Pollema assistance of the students in conducting their concretions and adjacent sandstones" "Identification of the MCR-5 mRNA levels by Major: Biology research but also are responsible to instruct and Sponsor: Richard Ojankangas RNase Protection Assay" "Predator-Prey Interactions of Walleye Fish" supervise the student during the project. Sponsor: Benjamin Clarke Sponsor: Allen Mensinger Marte Thabes Since 1985 students have competed for the Major: Biology Peter Keyel Kara Raymond award, which can provide a stipend up to $1,400 "Effect of Coarse Woo d y Debris on Small Mammals" Majors: Chemistry and Biochemistry Major: Cell Biology and/or an expense allowance up to $300.Each Sponsor: Gerald Niemi "Protein Expression of Herpes Simplex Virus Type "Isolation of DIC pump-related Novel Genes student may submit up to two proposals for II Infected, Betulin Treated Vero Cells" Induced in Dunaliella" research projects they would like to participate Bridget Thompson-McInnes Sponsor: Raj Karim Sponsor: Arun Goyal in. Annually about 400 students receive the Major: Computer Science UROP award presented by the Vice President for "Collection and Maintenance of the Midwater Lisa Lenertz Sarah Schaak Research and the Dean of the Graduate School Eelpout, Malanostigma pammelos" Major: Biochemistry Major: Biology at the University of Minnesota. Sponsor: Allen Mensinger "The Role of ASK-1 in the TNF-oc-induced "VII Nerve Regeneration in Walleye Pike" apoptosis pathway in osteoclasts" Sponsor: Allen Mensinger Sponsor: Merry Jo Oursler John Schwalbe Jeremy Marincel Major: Biology Major: Biology "Cyanobacterial Dominance in Light Limited "Oviposition Preference and Offspring Aquatic Environments" Performance in a Bruchid Beetle" Sponsor: Andrew Klemer Sponsor:Timothy Craig

14 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT by Megan Kingsley

When starting out in those general biology and Sharon Kunkel of Maple Lake, Minnesota,will Peter Keyel will be doing graduate studies in chemistry courses, graduation day seems ages graduate with a cell biology major and a minor in gene therapy next year. Until then,he will be away. For these seniors graduating with their chemistry. This summer she plans to spend a taking a break from intensive lab research this bachelor of science degrees, the days of Biology month traveling Europe.In September, she will summer to visit family. A double major in 1011 are in the distant past and the future holds join Americorps for a year. After that,she says chemistry and biochemistr y, Peter has had a many possibilities. she will "maybe work in a lab or hospital or go to good experience at UMD. "I think there is a grad school".Some significant life experiences unique atmosphere at Duluth," he says. He Brandon Barnes hails from Esko,Minnesota, she notes include working at Camp Friendship, a believes the professors here are interested in with his biology major and pre-dentistry camp for people with disabilities. Sharon says getting students into research. Peter mentioned emphasis. He is applying to dental school.He'll "This [experience] opened up my eyes to an his involvement in several different campus spend his summer working as he waits to hear appreciation of diversity," and she has made clubs. In the biochemistry/chemistry club he has back from the dental admissions.His favorite contacts there that she will visit on her European helped put on the "chem shows" for 4-Hers, Biology major class was Intro to Physics because travels. Her favorite biology class was Molecular elementary students,and various other groups it developed his abstract thinking skills.He says Biology Lab. She liked that it was based on over the past few years.He has done much that Invertebrate Biology taught him much about relatively new discoveries in the field. In her kayaking through Wuda Wooch and says he the "hatching and migration of insects", which undergraduate research lab with Raj Karim this prefers kayaking the rapids of the St.Louis River helped him become a more knowledgeable fly- year she "learned many lab techniques that will to the waves of Lake Superior. He is also active fisherman. help me in the future".She attended NCUR in Lutheran Campus Ministry. Peter's culmination (National Conference for Undergraduate of experiences at UMD has shaped who is he is A biology major who followed the pre-medicine Research) in Kentucky over spring break. today. His advice to freshman and sophomores is track, Heather Zahn's primary interest is "Get involved in research [but] don't get too psychology. She has applied to grad schools with With a dream to one day be a professor, Bridget busy" and "Use the Force".He says it is also programs in public health and human Soderberg is graduating with a biology B.S. this good to take time out for yourself to de-stress. If development.Her alternative plan to graduate spring. She'll spend the summer waitressing at he could go back in time and choose an studies is to attend the University of Minnesota Bellesio's and a few weeks traveling Ireland.She undergraduate college again, he would choose Minneapolis campus and earn a child says that working in Raj Karim's undergraduate UMD. psychology or family social science B.S. degree. research lab was a life changing experience for Her advice to freshmen and sophomores is her. She spent spring break in Kentucky at "plans change...develop your interests throughout NCUR.The classes she found most useful in her college". Her favorite college course is Molecular undergraduate studies were physiology and cell Biology. She says it is "interesting, laid-back,and biology. Bridget plans to take next year off,and there's room for discussion". She notes her then apply to graduate schools as diverse as sorority, Sigma Phi Kappa,helped her meet and Seattle, Washington,and Rochester's Mayo get to know people outside her major she Graduate School to study immunology. She has normally would not have socialized with or met. done research on Herpes simplex viruses I and II. Her advice to undergraduates beginning the biology major is: "Don't worry, it gets better."

15 BIOLOGY CLUB PRE-DENT CLUB PRE-VETERINARY "Where the Wildlife Is" by Cory Larson MEDICINE CLUB by Crystal Grund by Aaron Hokanson The Pre-Dent Club has had an active year and The Biology Club is an outlet for students to club membership is continually increasing. The The object of the Pre-Veterinary meet and relax with other students through many club’s primary purpose is to bring together Medicine Club is to provide students social and educational events. The club has students with an interest in the dental with an opportunity to meet others grown to over 70 students this year, and has profession. Meetings take place about once a with a common career goal and to added two new officer positions.The goal of the month and provide information about dental learn about the life of a doctor of club is for all members to become involved and school. Last semester, recruiters talked to us veterinary medicine.This is enjoy all the fun, social activities. about military scholarship opportunities and a accomplished through a variety of group of club members took a trip to the social and educational activities. We have enjoyed outings and pizza parties so far University of Minnesota Dental School in These events provide an atmosphere this year, and are looking ahead to many more. Minneapolis for Career Day. This past year, we in which members can share In March, we are planning to see "Sharks" at the also hosted several dentists who spoke about all knowledge of the veterinary Duluth OMNIMAX and start our T-shirt fundraiser. aspects of the profession and what it is like to profession and share ideas and Our most exciting event will be celebrating Earth have a private practice. We are interested in information with others. Day on April 26th. We are honored to present Dr. becoming part of the American Dental School PreVetMed Club (L to R) Keegstra as the Earth Day guest speaker in the Student Association next year and hosted a The club “kicked off” the year with its Front Row: Robin Ball,Raku Peterson,Advisor, Raj Spectrum Lecture Series.As a finale to our year, speaker from that group. annual fall picnic in the backyard of Dr. Raj Karim,Aaron Hokanson; our club is looking forward to hosting the annual Karim,our club advisor.We had a good turnout Back Row: Ann Torberg, Amy Lewis,Barbara biology department spring picnic and meeting The PreDent Club also has some social meetings and it provided incoming freshman with an Isaacson,Cale Pennings new members for the upcoming year. and participates in several fundraising activities. opportunity to meet members as well as many of If you are interested in the Pre-Dent Club, contact the biology department faculty.We also held an College of Veterinary Medicine’s annual open Biology club officers for the 2000-01 school year Cory Larson at [email protected] enjoyable Halloween pumpkin carving/pizza party house. During this time, we will learn about the are: Megan Gladen, president; Crystal Grund, meeting times and places are posted in the Life this year. admission process and will be receiving an treasurer and secretary; Jenny Koenig, Science building. informative tour given by a UMD graduate who is undergraduate representative; Erin Peterson, Future plans include a behind-the-scenes tour of a current U of M Veterinary Medical School activities. For more information about the the Lake Superior Zoo, where we will observe student.Other club activities planned for this biology club, visit us at: feeding habits,view x-rays,and examine blood year include a bowling and pizza night,as well as www.d.umn.edu/biology/club/home.html samples. We also plan to visit the North Shore a spring picnic. Veterinary Hospital to learn about alternative treatments such as acupuncture and herbal Anyone interested in becoming a member of the remedies. In April, we will be taking a trip to St. Pre-Veterinary Medicine Club should contact Paul to attend the University of Minnesota Aaron Hokanson at: [email protected].

Bi o l o gy Club Officers (L to R): PreDent Officers (L to R): John Schletty, Ro w 1,Jen Rask and Megan Gladen; President; Nate Bourassa,Vice-President and Ro w 2.Erin Pet e rs o n , Jen n y Koenig and Crystal Grun d Cory Larson,Secretary/Treasurer 16 PRE-MED CLUB PRE-OPTOMETRY CLUB by Jared Reese by Dena Bauer

The Pre Medicine Club is wrapping up another The UMD Pre-Optometry club is a new club that successful and fun filled year.We got started with has been busy recruiting new members this year. an introduction to the Club (along with some The club officers are Dena Bauer (junior),Emily tasty pizza) and an opportunity to welcome new Dold (senior),and Barry Fuchs (junior).The club members. At our next meeting (Halloween Eve) is a great resource of information for those we had the club's favorite, the cadaver lab tour. interested in the great profession of optometry. Accompanying us to the lab were a handful of first year medical students who gave us the This club presents the perfect opportunity for inside scoop on medical school as well as a brief students to learn more about the profession of anatomy lesson. Recently we were privileged to PreMed Club Officers Front to Back and L to R: optometry along with learning more about the have Dr. Lillian Repesh,the Associate Dean for Venu Nayar, Ann Marie Brown,Alex Thompson, Optometry Admissions test (OAT), various Admissions at UMD’s Medical School,come and Jared Reese and Ben Phipps optometry schools,recommended classes and share with us how the admissions process works other requirements for entry. Members who have as well as answer any questions we had. We all in the past and recently been accepted into left with a better understanding of what it takes optometry school also are available to answer to get into medical school. questions and share their experiences.

Our mission as a club is to provide a supportive Future plans include appearances by guest and enriching environment for all students who speakers in the profession of optometry and share a passion for a career in medicine. taking a trip to a doctor’s office to see first hand Currently we are about 30 strong and our what the job includes.For anyone interested in members are pursuing a wide variety of health joining, contact either Dena care careers such as physician,physician’s ([email protected]),Emily ([email protected]), assistant,nurse practitioner, chiropractor, and or Dr. Conrad Firling, the pre-optometry advisor. physical therapist, just to name a few. For more information about the Pre Med Club contact Jared Reese (r e e s 0 0 5 9 @ d . u m n . e d u ) , or any of our me m bers.

Officers for this year are Ben Phipps,president; Alex Thompson, vice president; Venu Nayar, fundraising; Cale Pennings,treasurer; Jared Reese,secretary; Ann Marie Brown, public relations.

PreOptometry Club Officers (L to R): Emily Dold,Barry Fuchs and Dena Bauer

17 CONGRATULATIONS Ryan Hankins and Shawn Lavelle, two of only Cammie Wendling (B.S. ’94) is a May, 2001 Amber Ulseth (B.S. ’99) enrolled in August of TO... 68 students from throughout the U.S., who graduate of the University of Minnesota Medical 2000 as a graduate student in aquatic ecology traveled to Washington, D.C.in March,2001,to School and will be starting an Emergency at the University of North Carolina,Greensboro. Sarah Elfering, winner of the Winchell Award,the present a research poster at the Council of Medicine residency in Detroit.Cammie’s family, top Minnesota Academy of Sciences award for Undergraduate Research’s fifth annual including three young sons,now live in the Twin Kay Rezanka (M.S. ’99) has a new job as St. 2000.Sarah is a Biology major working with Dr. “Undergraduate Posters on Capitol Hill”.Their Cities. Louis River – River Watch Coordinator for the Cecilia Giulivi. study focused on the topic of aluminum toxicity Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College in and its association with several bone diseases David Haugen (B.S. ’96) graduated last May from Cloquet.Kay oversees the training of high school Katherine Stephenson, junior Biology major, who and was done under the direction of Dr. Conrad Marquette University School of Dentistry and is students and teachers in stream sampling was recently awarded a prestigious Barry M. Firling. currently in an Advanced Education in General techniques and data analysis for the secondary Goldwater Scholarship for the academic year Dentistry residency for the U. S. Navy. He is school monitoring programs in northeastern 2001-2002.Katherine was one of 302 married with two children,and stationed at Great Minnesota.Kay joins other UMD Biology Alumni undergraduate scholarship winners from the fifty Lakes Naval Base. Paul Mickelson (B.S. ’86 and M.S. ’89),Andy states and Puerto Rico.Her career goals are to Wold (M.S. ’98),new Director of the earn a Ph.D. in marine biology and to teach and Michael Tupy (B.S. ’96) worked at Voyageur’s Environmental Institute and Mick Gillespie (M.S. conduct research at the college level. ALUMNI NEWS National Park as a technician for a short time, 2000),Biology Instructor, at Fond du Lac then returned to UMD and obtained an M.S. in College. Sarah Pollema and Katherine Stephenson for Robert M.Kittay (B.S. ’78) lives in Pierre, SD Industrial Safety in 1998.Mike enjoys the selection from a field of undergraduate where he is employed by the Drinking Water challenges of his job as an industrial hygienist for Jean Mengelkoch (M.S. ’00) recently began applicants for NSF-REU fellowships in the Marine Program of the South Dakota Department of Hennepin County. Mike’s wife Beth is also a UMD working for the Colorado State University Center Models in Biological Research Program at the Environment and Natural Resources.He is also graduate (class of ’97,Special Education) and for Ecological Management of Military Lands.She Marine Biolo-gical Laboratory, Woods Hole,MA. the varsity hockey coach in Pierre. they have a 15 month old daughter. is based at the US Army Corps of Engineers They will be studying toadfish physiology in the Research and Development Center in laboratory of UMD assistant professor of Biology Beth Middleton (M.S. ’83) authored “Wetland John Houle (B.S. ’96) is a graduate of the Champaign,IL. Her duties are to develop and Allen Mensinger. Restoration,Flood Pulsing and Disturbance Medical College of Wisconsin,Milwaukee, and coordinate research on the Indiana bat,including Dynamics”(1999, Wiley NY).She is on the currently in an internship/residency in plastic habitat characterization, population estimation Nicole Gilles, who received a $500 award as faculty of Plant Biology at Southern Illinois surgery at the University of Southern Illinois in and validation of habitat suitability indices. one of the winners of the Student Web Contest. University at Carbondale. Springfield. Nicole’s faculty sponsor was Lyle Shannon.Her In the last 30 years,more than 200 graduates of web site was designed for th ecology lab course Jack Erickson (M.S. ‘90) is a coldwater biologist Jim Gangl (M.S. ’98) works for the St. Louis UMD have served in the Peace Corps.Currently, and was demonstrated at the UMD TechFest. for the State of South Dakota.Since leaving UMD County department of Public Health as an 16 UMD graduates are currently serving as he completed an M.S. in Civil Engineering and is Environmental Health Specialist.His current work Peace Corps Volunteers.These include Biology Vanessa Strom and Adam Huneke, junior working toward a Ph.D. in Water Resource uses Geographic Information System (GIS) to graduates Michael Nelson (Science Teaching in Biology majors,on their selection for the Early Engineering, focusing his doctoral research on evaluate the performance of individual sewage South Africa), Jeffrey Rice (Science Teaching in Admission Program at the University of the impacts of urbanization and stormwater on treatment systems in different watersheds in the Kazakstan) and Jessica Wubbels (B.S. ’99; Minnesota School of Dentistry. They will both in brown trout populations.Jack and his wife Anita county. Jim’s wife, Vivian, works for the Duluth Health Extension in Zambia). the entering class of 2001. plan to visit Minnesota this fall. Public Library. Carolyn Scholl (M.S. ’00) and her husband are the parents of twins Michael James and Megan Elaine born in September, 2000.Congratulations Contact us at: to Dennis and Carolyn! http://www.d.umn.edu/biology/

18 A ONCE IN A LIFETIME is still an opportunity available for alumni and Our second goal is to fund a larger endowment How Can Your Gift Make a friends like you to help. UMD is naming special over the next five years to support undergraduate Difference? OPPORTUNITY -- rooms and laboratories and other parts of this and graduate research projects. We hope to For:You Can: Announcing the new UMD Laborator y new building.Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have a raise $100,000 to endow support for the growing Sciences Building classroom or a seminar room named by your number of undergraduate and graduate students $25,000 Permanently endow a student scholar by Randall E.Hicks, company, or have a student lounge or computer who pursue research projects within the Biology ship or research award named for a Department of Biology Head lab named in honor of a relative,friend or former Department. loved one or to honor a favorite professor professor you treasure? If you or your company Yes, it is going to happen; a new building for are interested,then it is not too early to consider The number of undergraduate biology students $1,000 Help complete our Biology Students chemical and biological studies at UMD! The this opportunity. Please feel free to discuss your participating in research projects has grown Award Fund Department of Biology will be permanently interest and ideas with me (218-726-7263, steadily; a 135% increase during the past allocated new space to meet its instructional and [email protected]) or Bill Wade (218-726-8831) decade. $1,000 Help the Biology Department reach its research missions for the first time since the in the UMD Development Office. It may be a endowment goal for student research present Life Sciences Building was constructed in once in a lifetime opportunity! Students and faculty alike feel a research 1967.The Life Sciences Building was completed experience is an important aspect of education $100 Support student clubs in the Biology at a time when there were fewer faculty members Additional Opportunities to Support UMD and training at UMD. This special endowment Department and when fewer students and investigators Biology Students will help us support the growing number of conducted research in our department. We have The contributions of friends and alumni continue students who wish to participate in biological $100 Contribute to the unrestricted Biology needed additional space for many years because to be an important resource as we grow and research. Development Fund the department’s activities have long since improve.This year, we are thankful for receiving outgrown the space available in this building. many gifts from alumni and friends, which are the Our third goal is to endow annual support for the All gifts to UMD are tax deductible and the UMD Two years ago,Chancellor Martin proposed core of our development program (please see our student clubs associated with the Department of Development Office will be happy to provide the constructing a new Laboratory Sciences Building list of donors). No matter how small a gift is, Biology (i.e.,Biology Club, Pre-Vet Club, Pre- documentation you need. Many corporations when it was recognized that both the Biology and there are special areas in our department where Dentistry Club, Pre-Optometry Club). The and organizations match individual donations to Chemistry Departments needed additional space your gift will make an important difference. emeritus faculty, many of whom are your past educational institutions,so I urge you to inquire if as well as new space to support their growing professors,are very excited about these your employer will match your contribution. programs in cell and molecular biology. This One of our development goals has been to raise fundraising goals. Again, if you, your family, or Please send your gifts to the UMD Development request for an additional science building on the $10,000 to endow a Biology Student Awards your company would like to help us reach our Office (315 Darland Administration Building, UMD campus is now the top-rated building Fund.Obtaining funds from the university to goals, then please contact me (218-726-7263; UMD, Duluth,MN 55812). We are extremely request for the entire University of Minnesota develop student awards is nearly impossible after [email protected]) to discuss your gift further. grateful for the continuing generosity of our System. Governor Ventura’s proposed budget has the other needs within the university are met. alumni and friends. identified funds this year to complete the final This fund will will help us develop new awards in blueprints for this new $33 million dollar “state- the future but also permanently provide funding of-the art”science building.Final plans will be for small gifts to accompany our existing annual finished in 2002 and construction will start as awards such as the Outstanding First Year soon as building funds are obtained from the Student and the Outstanding Graduate Teaching legislature.Construction could start as soon as Assistant awards. The endowment has grown August 2002, which means the new building during the past year but our goal is still not met. would be ready to occupy in late 2004. The Biology Department needs your help. It’s faculty members have already contributed almost You will be hearing more about this exciting UMD 25% of the funds needed to meet our goal building project during the next few years. because they understand the importance of Fortunately, twenty-five percent of the cost to recognizing students at all stages of their construct this new science building has been education. Join us in reaching this goal and given by the Swenson Family Foundation. There ea r mark your gift for the “B i o l o g y Student Awards Fund”. 19 UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA DULUTH Non-Profit Org DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY Us Postage 211 LIFE SCIENCE BUILDING PAID 10 UNIVERSITY DRIVE Permit No DULUTH MN 55812--2946 721 Duluth MN

TO

THE LIFE SCIENTIST 2001

An annual newsletter for alumni, faculty, staff,students and friends of the UMD Biology Department

EDITOR Linda Holmstrand PHOTOS Brett Groehler, STUDENT EDITOR Megan Kingsley Campus Photographer GRAPHIC DESIGN J. Kaczmarek and S.Pederson Ruth Hemming Graphic Design Services Linda Holmstrand Lyle Shannon STUDENT Dena Bauer CONTIBUTORS Becky Bolstad SPECIAL Dr. Randall Hicks Biology Department Crystal Grund THANKS Head,for his contributions. Tara Hoff Ruth Hemming, Lyle Shannon and Aaron Hokanson Sharon Eck for clerical and technical Charlene Johnson assistance. Sharon Kunkel Cory Larson Molly Martin Jared Reese

The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. Printed on Recycled Paper