Exploring the Impact of Vineyard Management on the Rhizosphere and Root Microbiome

The student will assist a graduate student in studying the effect of vineyard management practices on the microbiome. This project focuses on DNA extraction techniques to analyze microbial communities in vineyard soils and plants, exploring how different management practices (e.g., organic, conventional) influence soil and plant health.

Anticipated Time Commitment:

  • 13 weeks with 3 (flexible but up to 6) hours/week during the Spring 25 semester

Project Duration:

  • Spring 2025 with continuation possible.

Compensation:

  • Credits
Name of research group, project, or lab
Petit
Website
https://www.umass.edu/stockbridge/about/directory/elsa-petit
Why participate in this opportunity?
  • Hands-on experience in microbiome research: Learn DNA extraction and microbiome sequencing
  • Explore sustainable agriculture: Study how vineyard management practices affect soil and plant microbiomes.
  • Build valuable skills: Gain experience in lab techniques, data analysis, and scientific research.
  • Career opportunities: Opens pathways to internships, graduate research, or careers in plant science, microbiology, or sustainable agriculture.
  • Networking: Work closely with graduate students and faculty, building connections for future academic and professional opportunities.
Logistics Information:
Subject Category
Arboriculture
Bioinformatics/Data Science
Biology
Ecology
Ecology and Environmental Sustainability
Environmental Science
Genomics
Horticultural Science
Microbiology
Molecular Biology
Natural Resources Conservation
Plant and Soil Science
Plant Biology
Science (Interdepartmental)
Sustainable Food & Farming
Student ranks applicable
Sophomore
Junior
Senior
Student qualifications
  • Academic background: Interest in microbiology, plant science, or environmental science. Coursework in biology, microbiology, or soil science is preferred but not required.
  • Skills: Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow lab protocols. Familiarity with basic lab equipment or previous lab experience is helpful but not necessary.
  • Physical qualifications: Ability to work in a lab setting for extended periods.
Time commitment
1-4 h/wk
5-7 h/wk
Position Types and Compensation
Research - Ind. Study Credit
Number of openings
1
Techniques learned
  • DNA extraction: Learn how to extract DNA from soil and plant samples for microbial analysis.
  • Microbial community analysis: Understand methods for assessing microbial diversity and community composition using DNA-based techniques.
Project start
Spring 2024
Contact Information:
Mentor
Elsa Petit
epetit@umass.edu
Principal Investigator
Name of project director or principal investigator
Petit
Email address of project director or principal investigator
epetit@umass.edu
1 sp. | 18 appl.
Hours
1-4 h/wk (+1)
1-4 h/wk5-7 h/wk
Project categories
Sustainable Food & Farming (+14)
ArboricultureBioinformatics/Data ScienceBiologyEcologyEcology and Environmental SustainabilityEnvironmental ScienceGenomicsHorticultural ScienceMicrobiologyMolecular BiologyNatural Resources ConservationPlant and Soil SciencePlant BiologyScience (Interdepartmental)Sustainable Food & Farming