Biology Research
Anatomy
Research in human anatomy has evolved into morphometrics, which is used clinically in robotic surgeries and imaging. Current studies aim to determine mandibular nerve deviations and variations in pancreatic duct locations. You might work with Dr. Mary Tracy-Bee.
Genetics/Bioinformatics
Exposure to environmental changes activate particular genes contained in the chromosome. DNA chip technology can be used to identify gene regulations changes resulting from environmental changes. Research opportunities might be found with Dr. Stokes Baker.
Humans and fruit flies share approximately 80% of genes that are mutated in human cancers. Studying these mutations in Drosophila melanogaster provides a rapid model to understand what drives human cancer development. Learn more about Dr. Jacob Kagey.
Microbiology
Bacteria are the most ubiquitous organisms on the planet and exhibit a wide metabolic diversity. Bacteria are being investigated that potentially could be used to decompose petroleum products and alleviate the ecological problems related to plastics. These research topics are taught by Dr. James Graves.
Physiology
Over 3000 species of cockroaches inhabit the planet, and only 5 give humans a problem. Current studies are focused on the gastro-intestinal physiology of cockroaches through the isolation of enzymes involved in pH, bacterial colonization, and endocrine hormone localization. Dr. Greg Grabowski's bio.
Zebrafish can be used as a model organism to study olfaction because the organization of the olfactory system of fish is qualitatively similar to higher vertebrates. Current studies investigate which specific component(s) of the neural pathway that processes olfactory signals are targeted for differentiation by hormones in the developing nervous system. You might work with Dr. Rachelle Belanger.
Sea-Phages
The SEA-PHAGES Laboratory is a laboratory course at Detroit Mercy designed to give students a unique mentored research experience in their freshman year. Students will be part of a larger national consortium to isolate and characterize new bacteriophage (viruses that infect bacteria). The program duration is one full year. Learn about this program and apply.
Toxicology
Crayfish are keystone species in the environment because they transfer energy from the aquatic layer to the terrestrial food webs. Studying the effects of commonly used herbicides is important because their use could impact crayfish populations. Find Dr. Rachelle Belanger's bio and more on this research.