DEMING – Students in Western New Mexico University’s Plant Form, Function, and Diversity Lab are diving into original seed germination experiments this semester. Under the guidance of Assistant Professor of Biology, Eric Casler, students are tasked with designing unique experiments to test various germination methods, applying hands-on research to entry-level biology.
In teams, students have developed creative ways to challenge seeds, from pH variations to exposure to x-rays and microwaves. Each group will document their findings in a scientific paper, with some students opting to present their research at the semester-end student symposium. This project, Casler explains, provides students with autonomy and a real sense of scientific discovery early in their academic journey.