This $290,025 federal Project Grant award from the National Science Foundation's Biological Sciences program (CFDA 47.074) supports research to develop new methods for detecting eukaryotic symbionts associated with insects. The primary awardee, the University of Iowa, will use the funding to: 1) design PCR blocking primers to inhibit amplification of insect DNA while allowing detection of other eukaryotic organisms, and 2) conduct large-scale surveys of insect-symbiont diversity across two natural communities. This research aims to reveal undiscovered eukaryotic species that may be specialized symbionts of insects, improving estimates of global biodiversity. The project will also integrate the research into public outreach activities and provide training opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Iowa and a primarily undergraduate institution. The award period is from April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2027.
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