The Fly Could Prove Fruitful for Good Health

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By Stephanie Jones MA ’10
December 8, 2009

Without the grant, Arbeitman would have had to discontinue employing undergrads in her lab.

“Over the last several years we have had very talented undergraduates work in the lab and make substantial contributions to our scientific questions,” she said. “Most students aren’t in a financial situation where they can work as volunteers, so I support them as part-time employees usually through grants during the summer, and at reduced hours during the school year. The additional funds will allow me to continue having undergraduates work in the laboratory.”

The grant will fund the post doc for two fiscal years. The additional help and equipment will quicken the pace of her crucial research.

Michelle Arbeitman, Gabilan Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences, has received a $325,148 federal stimulus grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences.

The award enables Arbeitman to hire one post-doctorial researcher, one technician, as well as undergraduates to help advance the understanding of the molecular genetics of reproductive behaviors and physiology in fruit flies. The goal is to provide a deeper understanding of the molecular genetics of social behaviors — such as courtship displays — with the long-term objective of understanding human behaviors.

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