Learning about phages

Under Dr. Sheridan's guidance, I am attempting to isolate bacteriophage against various pathogens and it has been great so far! A bacteriophage is a virus that infects a host bacterial cell and ultimately destroys it, so if isolation of bacteriophage is successful, it could be a viable option for combating pathogens.

The first few weeks I was constantly asking Dr. Sheridan, the graduate students, and other undergraduate students in the lab questions. Out of that, I was able to learn so much and have already seen a lot of improvement in my laboratory and time management skills. I quickly realized how important it is to be thinking two steps ahead in a research setting in order for the day-to-day operations to run smoothly. Before I can begin testing, I need to prepare by making and sterilizing all media and glassware I will be using, which takes more time than I originally thought!

Out of this, I have already seen interesting and promising results. A plaque on a plate is indicative of bacteriophage and I have already been able to see a couple plaques. Further testing needs to be done now in order to conform that those plaques are, in fact, bacteriophages and I can't wait to see the results.

#phageresearch