Project:

Microbial Air Sampling In and Around NYC

Students:

Laura Andersen, Nushera Nahia

School:

Manhattan College, The Bronx

Mentors:

Bryan Wilkins

Abstract:

Microorganisms are a vital part of nature, human health, and to an ecosystem. They live in water, in soil, on the skin, and in digestive tracts. There are several types of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, algae, and viruses. However, the types of microorganisms in the air can depend on their location and their environment. Our project is aimed at finding common microorganisms in three different areas in, and surrounding, New York City: The Bronx, Manhattan, and Westchester County. We will use passive agar plate air sampling to collect and identify common microorganism colonies. During the spring, we will be using three Petri dishes, sampling every 30 minutes, over an hour and a half, at a local park. We will use DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and DNA Barcoding to identify any colonies that settle on our plates. This project will help us understand how common different microorganisms are within one city.

Poster:

Team samples: