The main goal of the project is to calibrate an HPLC (high-pressure liquid chromatograph) device so that it becomes prepared for a 2-year long research project. "Calibration" is a term normally used in science to describe an experiment for which the expected results are known in advance.

To clarify, the project we are offering here involves only the calibration - it does not include the two years of research that come after the calibration.
Our company has recently acquired an HPLC (high-pressure liquid chromatograph) from Agilent Technologies. This device can separate and identify the various materials or compounds in a tissue sample from, say, an experimental plant (like a celery plant grown in the lab). We are looking for a student to help us with the setup and calibration of this device.
Ultimately, the project goal is to find out how different plants react to various synthetic chemicals - but the first step to doing that is to calibrate the HPLC device.

• obtain an understanding of HPLC technology
• Help to correctly hook up and configure the Agilent 1100 HPLC that we have in-house
• Learn to understand research lab horticultural practices of growing sprouts, seedlings and fungi
• Help conduct the initial experiment called "the calibration experiment"
• Repeat the calibration experiment until results are what they are expected to be or until the stipend term is over

We will provide: challenges, deadlines, a space that is conducive for accomplishment. The project will take place onsite at our office and you'll be provided with all the safety materials and requirements needed. Our team is here to help you learn during your 80 hours with us! If you've interested in the work we're doing and eager to learn and ask questions we want to work with you and will teach you what you need to know along the way.