MATERIALS & RESOURCES
This research had different requirements for the two components. Seed samples for each cultivar were obtained from PGRC (Table 1). The phenotypic part required: adequate greenhouse space with artificial lights for approximately 120 days, 288 pots with soil, measuring equipment, scale, envelopes, and statistical analysis equipment. The genotypic part included: DNeasy Plant Mini kit (tubes and solutions from Qiagen), quantification equipment and solutions, PCR equipment and solutions, gel electrophoresis, photograph solutions and equipment, and statistical analysis equipment. The experimental design of this research project is a direct comparison of cultivars over time and as such there is no true control. For the phenotypic analysis, all plants were grown in the same controlled environment (a greenhouse) so that all environmental factors influencing plant growth are the same (control) and any phenotypic traits expressed by the cultivars are due to their genotype only. The methods used for genotypic analysis are precise and precautions are taken to reduce any DNA contamination in samples. Any deviations from materials and methods significantly reduces the chance of obtaining accurate gel photographs representing the genotypes of the different wheat cultivars. I had access to all of the materials, supplies and equipment I needed for this research through my mentors Dr. Yong-Bi Fu and Mr. Gregory Peterson at PGRC. My research project was funded by PGRC.
