SynZyme CURE: An Interdisciplinary Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Mark dela Cerna and Dr. Shainaz Landge
Location
Russell Union Ballroom
Type of Research
Completed
Session Format
Poster Presentation
College
College of Science & Mathematics
Department
Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Physics
Abstract
The SynZyme Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) was developed to immerse students in an interdisciplinary semester-long project that integrates organic synthesis and enzyme biochemistry within the context of early-stage drug development. Embedded within a bioinstrumental chemistry course, this CURE emphasizes practical use of instrumentation in chemical and biochemical research. Eight undergraduate students synthesized a series of five novel triazole-based compounds and performed detailed molecular characterization to confirm purity and identity. Students then performed molecular docking before evaluating the inhibitory activity of the compounds against two target bacterial protein tyrosine phosphatases. Student Assessment of their Learning Gains, along with Undergraduate Research Student Self-Assessment (URSSA) instrument, was used to evaluate the gains and experiences of the participants. Data revealed increased confidence in conducting independent research and meaningfully contributing to a research project. Overall, the SynZyme CURE demonstrates the effectiveness of course-based research in fostering scientific identity, strengthening interdisciplinary competencies, and preparing undergraduates for “real-world” research environments.
Program Description
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Start Date
4-23-2026 2:00 PM
End Date
4-23-2026 4:00 PM
Recommended Citation
Westervelt, Scott; Bennett, Grace M.; dela Cerna, Mark V.C.; and Landge, Shainaz, "SynZyme CURE: An Interdisciplinary Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience" (2026). GS4 Student Scholars Symposium. 222.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/research_symposium/2026/2026/222
SynZyme CURE: An Interdisciplinary Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience
Russell Union Ballroom
The SynZyme Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) was developed to immerse students in an interdisciplinary semester-long project that integrates organic synthesis and enzyme biochemistry within the context of early-stage drug development. Embedded within a bioinstrumental chemistry course, this CURE emphasizes practical use of instrumentation in chemical and biochemical research. Eight undergraduate students synthesized a series of five novel triazole-based compounds and performed detailed molecular characterization to confirm purity and identity. Students then performed molecular docking before evaluating the inhibitory activity of the compounds against two target bacterial protein tyrosine phosphatases. Student Assessment of their Learning Gains, along with Undergraduate Research Student Self-Assessment (URSSA) instrument, was used to evaluate the gains and experiences of the participants. Data revealed increased confidence in conducting independent research and meaningfully contributing to a research project. Overall, the SynZyme CURE demonstrates the effectiveness of course-based research in fostering scientific identity, strengthening interdisciplinary competencies, and preparing undergraduates for “real-world” research environments.
