McNair Scholar 2019 Sierra J. Hamernick
Sierra J. Hamernick is a junior at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities majoring in genetics, cell biology, and development and minoring in neuroscience. Her research interests are centered around cellular processes and genetics, whether human or plant. Ms. Hamernick plans on getting her Ph.D. in molecular biology and genetics.
My dream is to earn a Ph.D. in cellular or molecular biology, which will allow me to continue to learn and be challenged. I want to be able to contribute to the world with my passion and in the best way I know how: biomedical research.
Research project
Identification of Festuca ovina taxa through ploidy level estimation and genome size measurement
Abstract: Fescue (Festuca L., Poaceae) is an expansive and diverse genus of perennial grasses with a wide range of ploidy levels and indistinguishable phenotypic characteristics, making breeding a fescue cultivar difficult. Flow cytometry is extensively used with plants for ploidy level estimation and genome size measurement due to its effectiveness and strength as a tool. We used flow cytometry to determine ploidy levels and DNA content of the F. ovina accessions from USDA Germplasm. Most of the germplasms were found to have ploidy levels ranging from diploid to hexaploidy, with a potential haploid. We also investigated the correlation between taxa country of origin and ploidy level, which could aid in studying the evolutionary history of this complex. Most importantly, with a greater understanding of the genetics of F. ovina taxa, breeders could benefit by integrating wild accessions into developing a more adaptable fescue cultivar.
Faculty mentor
Dr. Florence Sessoms is currently a researcher in the Department of Horticultural Science at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Sessoms received her master’s in population and ecosystem biology from University of Pierre and Marie Curie in Paris. She also attended University of Fribourg in Switzerland where she received her Ph.D. in plant and microbial interactions. After her Ph.D., Dr. Sessoms continued to Cornell University and the University of Minnesota where she completed various esteemed postdoctoral fellowships. Her research specializes in the study of plant root interaction with micro-organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, and different chemical present in soil.