The OPGC offers numerous research opportunities for undergraduate students. Research projects vary widely, encompassing a range of required skills and challenges. If interested in research, contact the Director of the OPGC, Pablo Jourdan (jourdan.1@osu.edu). Below are only some examples of projects that could be pursued by undergraduate students; each project has a main topic and associated questions or issues.
Interspecific hybridization in Phlox and characterization of hybrids
The potential for exchange of genetic information between species or the combination of multiple traits from two species is an important tool in the development of new and/or improved ornamental plants. We are constantly exploring new species combinations and also evaluating various hybrids previously obtained.
Micropropagation of selected species
The potential for exchange of genetic information between species or the combination of multiple traits from two species is an important tool in the development of new and/or improved ornamental plants. We are constantly exploring new species combinations and also evaluating various hybrids previously obtained.
Examination of chromosomes, genome size and cellular interaction in selected species and hybrids.
Ethylene is a gaseous plant hormone that plays an important role in many processes. Ethylene-insensitive mutants may yield ornamental plants with interesting attributes. Can we select seedlings of some OPGC plants that grow normally in the presence of ethylene?
Seed dormancy in native species, like Rudbeckia fulgida.
Do plants of R. fulgida from Florida have the same level of dormancy as those from Ohio? Understanding seed dormancy can help the production and use of these plants.