Genomics is the study of all DNA and its function in an organism, and the GRL provides cross-curricular access to the tools needed for genomic studies. These tools include instruments for DNA sequencing and laboratory automation and are expected to help scientists identify superior crop varieties and enhance agricultural production.

The ceremonies included a tour featuring some of the research tools housed in the brand-new, $3 million, 4,000-square-foot GRL.

Dr. Bryon Sosinski, GRL director, conducted the tour as visitors viewed the robots and computers that make genomic science possible, while researchers were on hand to answer questions.

The GRL, which houses equipment that is revolutionizing molecular biology, “will be an invaluable aid to researchers determining the DNA sequences of the genes that make up the genetic code of an organism,” said Dr. Charles Opperman, GRL faculty co-director and a plant pathologist. “It also will be an important training ground for graduate students in such fields as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and agri-science.”

Prior to the tour the audience heard remarks by N.C. State Chancellor Marye Anne Fox; Dr. Jim Oblinger, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences dean; Dr. Charles Moreland, vice chancellor for research, outreach and extension; and Dr. William Thompson, GRL faculty co-director and a University Research Professor in botany.

To learn more about the GRL, see the Spring 1999 issue of Perspectives, or go on-line at http://www.cals.ncsu.edu/agcomm/magazine/spring99/genome.htm.

For more on the lab’s function and staff: http://centennial.ncsu.edu/directory/ncs/grl.htm.