Summary Research Opportunity in Plant Reproductive Biology:
Dr. Neil Sawyer

What do we study?

In our lab we study the pollination and breeding systems of plants. In our studies we hope to 1) add to the basic scientific knowledge of the reproductive biology of rare Wisconsin plant species, 2) provide important information on breeding system requirements and seed set relevant to the conservation of these species, 3) practically train future pollination biologists in the methods and techniques used in the study of reproductive plant biology, and 4) extend the educational and research opportunities of University of Wisconsin-Whitewater students and faculty to high school students and faculty. Pollen limitation due to low frequencies of pollinators or pollination can be an important factor contributing to reduced population vitality and the survival capacity of a plant species. Although recognized as important to the reproductive fitness of plants, surprisingly few studies of the pollination biology of rare insect-pollinated species have been conducted. This summer we will test the hypothesis that rare insect-pollinated species may be pollen limited. We will be looking at one of several possible species, such as downy willow-herb (Epilobium strictum) or upland boneset (Eupatorium sessilifolium var. brittonianum).

What is it like to work with plants and insects?

Most people know little about the complex reproductive life of plants and how intensively that life is intertwined with that of insects, birds, and even mammals that pollinate them. Much of the preliminary work we do is outside. Based on historical data, we try to locate local populations of the study plants. We go to these sites and set them up so that we can study the plants. We perform experiments on them to determine their breeding system and we attempt in various ways to collect and determine what is pollinating them. In our case, the pollinators will be insects - flies, wasps, and bees are the most common pollinators. We collect them, if we are lucky, using a killing jar.

So, during the summer months, while the plants are flowering and fruiting, we are collecting data outside. During the winter, the data collected during the summer is analyzed. To make sure are results are reliable, we usually repeat everything for at least two years.

What will student researchers do?

Students in our lab are relied upon to perform a wide variety of tasks. These include, but are not restricted to, visiting local museum plant collections such as the herbarium in Madison, identifying plant study populations in the field, collecting field data, inputting and analyzing field collected data in computer programs such as ExcelÆ, looking at seeds and flowers under the microscope, looking at pollen and pollen tubes under a scanning electron microscope, and trying to collect and identify insect species that visit or pollinate the plants.

Students will find it necessary to research methods used in plant reproductive biology by visiting the library or using websites to find primary journal articles in the field. We are always looking for new techniques for making stains and other chemicals required to view our specimens under the microscope. And, of course, students are continually refreshing our supplies of stains and chemicals.

What kind of skills and knowledge will I take from this experience?

In very practical ways undergraduate researchers participating in this project will expand their knowledge of how science works in the real world and their problem-solving capabilities. During the course of the project, participants will be acquainted with the methods and techniques used in the study of reproductive plant biology. Participants will become familiar with all aspects of scientific research. This research will be open-ended, with unknown results. In addition to participating in and directing library-, museum-, and field-based research, participants will be trained in practical laboratory techniques. Further, participants will gain an understanding of experimental design and data analysis, tools essential to careers in biology. During the course of the project, participants will be engaged in activities that will hone their problem solving, writing, and presenting skills, activities that will prepare them for careers in the sciences. Participants also will be trained in the use of state-of-the-art technology (scanning electron microscopy). In the process, participants will acquire knowledge of the natural history of Wisconsin. By acquainting participants with the process and implementation of scientific research, this project should greatly improve their ability to succeed in the pursuit of their academic goals.

Research Papers