NEWS

Louisiana Tech University is adopting a groundbreaking research experience for freshmen biology students through the Tiny Earth Program, becoming the only institution in north Louisiana to incorporate the international initiative. Tiny Earth is a Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) featured in the BISC 133 biological diversity lab course. This program provides a hands-on opportunity for students to participate in the search for effective antibiotics amidst the antibiotic resistance crisis.

Tiny Earth connects students with a global network of researchers dedicated to discovering new antibiotics by studying soil bacteria. Louisiana Tech is the only public research university in the state to offer the program to freshmen.

“With Tiny Earth, students don’t just study biology; they get to participate in cutting-edge research that can have real-world implications,” Tech biology instructor Rebecca Hodnett said. “This hands-on experience makes our freshman lab course unique, allowing students to make direct contributions toward solving one of the most urgent health challenges of our time. This crisis could affect our population and healthcare in the next 25 years.”

Tiny Earth allows students to take ownership of their research projects, providing a platform to develop critical laboratory skills such as micro pipetting, PCR and gel electrophoresis, and microbial culturing techniques. The experience also fosters cognitive and communication skills, preparing students for future internships, summer research opportunities, or graduate studies. These are valuable skills that can bolster their resumes and career prospects.

The program also enhances students’ self-efficacy, making them more engaged with the science they are learning and promoting deeper interest in research. As part of their involvement, student groups manage their projects from start to finish, making decisions that allow each project to be distinct and personally meaningful.

“By participating in Tiny Earth, students gain more than just research experience,” said Hodnett. “They develop the confidence and skills necessary to engage in more advanced research, apply for internships, and present their findings at conferences and symposia.”

In addition to offering real-world experience, Tiny Earth plays a crucial role in promoting student retention in science programs. By immersing students in research during their first year, the program encourages them to continue in the sciences and pursue careers in research and the broader science workforce.

Aligned with Tech’s commitment to be the exemplar in experiential learning, Tiny Earth is integrated into the Biological Diversity lab, a required course for biology majors and some other science-related disciplines. Through the program, students will engage in vital scientific research, making it an attractive opportunity for prospective students interested in starting their academic careers with hands-on, impactful research.