Southwest Montana News

Carroll College has announced the awarding of grants to two faculty members from the institution, enhancing its resources for biomedical research and student education. The Montana IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (MT INBRE) has provided these competitive infrastructure grants, aimed at significantly advancing the college's research capabilities.

Dr. Calvin Goemann, an Assistant Professor of Microbiology, received a $36,890 grant for acquiring a GridION Nanopore genome sequencer and a high-speed centrifuge. This modern equipment is expected to enhance the college's genomic sequencing capabilities and computational power, cutting sequencing costs from $1,000 to $90 per run and enabling real-time data analysis. "Carroll’s strong track record in preparing students for medical and graduate research programs is built on active, experiential learning," stated Dr. Goemann. He highlighted the importance of the equipment for expansion of summer research initiatives and integration into the biology curriculum, offering hands-on genome sequencing experience.

Complementing this, the grant received is part of a funding effort with $40,000 already contributed by Dr. Ashley Beck through the National Science Foundation, facilitating the procurement of the $67,000 necessary equipment and materials.

Dr. John Rowley, an Associate Professor of Chemistry, secured a $45,812 grant for a combined UV-Vis-NIR and fluorescence spectrophotometer. This spectrometer will help measure light absorption and emission in biological and chemical samples, essential for research in various fields, including drug delivery and solar energy materials. According to Dr. Rowley, "This spectrophotometer will provide publication-quality data, support dozens of student research projects each year, and further enhance the quality of learning across our chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology programs."

Both grants align with the mission of Montana INBRE, a network composed of Ph.D.-granting institutions, baccalaureate schools, and tribal colleges, working to fortify Montana’s biomedical research infrastructure and workforce. "These awards are a testament to the talent and dedication of our faculty, as well as Carroll College’s commitment to providing undergraduates with transformative research experiences," said Dr. John Cech, President of Carroll College.

The new equipment is anticipated to increase student engagement in research, with over 75 students having employed spectroscopic techniques in their studies between Spring and Fall 2024.

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