Independent Research Provides Unique Hands-On Learning Opportunity in Biology

Senior and Prof Comparing Healing Powers of Tegaderm vs. Tumeric and Honey A Wilmington College senior and her biology professor are conducting original research that considers the speed of healing when comparing man-made and naturally derived wound dressings. PICTURED: Lindsey Rosselott works with Dr. Savitha Krishna in an independent research study this semester. Lindsey Rosselott, a senior from Lynchburg majoring in biology/life sciences has been working this semester on an independent research project with Dr. Savitha Krishna, assistant professor of biology. They are comparing the wound healing efficiencies of tegaderm, a transparent medical dressing, with the effects of honey and turmeric, the latter of which is a plant in the ginger family native to India Southeast Asia. Krishna said Rosselott’s research utilizes such skills as handling laboratory animals (mice), properly creating wounds and preparing herbal extractions, all of which serve to meet many graduate school requirements and are experiences employers like to see on resumes. Rosselott said the chance to conduct research was one of the opportunities that attracted her to study biology at the College. “Working independent studies give you hands-on learning experience in the laboratories,” she said, noting biology majors at WC have many opportunities to familiarize themselves with laboratory equipment that students at other schools might not use at the undergraduate level. “This helps give us a competitive edge for future careers. “I’ve gained knowledge of anesthetics, wound-making, wound care, data analysis and handling of mice,” she added, noting she looks forward to joining the workforce in the biological sciences following her graduation in May.