McMurry University has received a grant from LI-COR Biosciences to help purchase a DNA sequencer, possibly the first of its kind in Abilene.

Having the DNA sequencer will greatly enhance the teaching and research capabilities and opportunities for our students and faculty,” said Dr. Gary Wilson, dean of the School of Natural and Computational Sciences.  The $102,000 instrument is a workhorse in biotechnology, with applications that range from genetics and molecular biology, to medical research and forensic science, to agriculture and energy production.

Dr. Paul Pyenta, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, and Dr. Heidi DiFrancesca, Department of Biology, were instrumental in gaining the grant, Wilson said. “Their proposals for imaginative and innovative use of the LI-COR system in their lab courses demonstrated a commitment to providing students with hands-on, research-rich experience that translates into practical and useful knowledge and skills.  They plan to use this in the labs for their regular classes, as well as in student research projects.  It raises the sophistication of our programs to match those anywhere.

The instrument will be a cornerstone for the new Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Science and will also be vital in supporting degrees in Biochemistry and Biology, Wilson said.  “We are excited to be part of the growing biotechnology infrastructure in Abilene and to play a part in the education of a new workforce for Abilene.  We also plan to make sure future and current teachers have opportunities to join in the fun.

Wilson said the DNA sequencer is expected to be in use during the Fall 2008 semester.