Schweiger Lab

I typically accept M.S. students in the Fall semester, but admission for the Spring semester is possible. I look for potential graduate students who have bench experience (microbiology, biochemistry, or related field), strong academic record, evidence of quantitative skills and problem-solving ability, are creative and highly motivated, and provide evidence that their interests match on-going or related work in the lab. Prospective M.S. students are encouraged to contact Dr. Paul Schweiger to express their interest and should apply to the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse Microbiology Department graduate program. 

 

We often have opportunities for eager undergraduate researchers to join our lab team. Minimal qualifications include having taken courses in microbiology or genetics (may be currently enrolled) and a GPA typically of at least a 3.0. Ideally, students should be able to work at least two semesters in the lab. Undergraduates should be creative, highly motivated, detail oriented, self-driven, and provide evidence that their interests match current projects in my lab. If interested in joining our team, please contact Paul Schweiger to setup an appointment to discuss our research in more detail.

 

Students are typically trained in a variety of areas and techniques that spans one or more of the following: applied/environmental microbiological techniques, molecular biology, genetics, bioinformatics, biochemistry, and/or metabolism/physiology. These skills include both quantitative and qualitative analysis of data, problem-solving (using deductive, inductive, and abductive reasoning), and how to work within a diverse collaborative environment. 

 

Student mentoring approaches will vary according to the individual student and the level/skill set of the student. The lab meets regularly to discuss research proposals, results, literature/manuscripts, and troubleshoot. I meet with new students more often on an individual basis to develop a project and discuss problems as they arise. I also spend time in the lab and work side-by-side with students, especially early in training. Experienced graduate and undergraduate students also work hands on with new students so they can learn the necessary techniques. The goal for graduate students is to author a paper by the time they graduate. Undergraduates who also participate in these projects are also expected to be involved in the writing process. Graduate students are expected to complete a M.S. degree within 3 years; however, most are able to complete their degree programs in about 2 yrs. There are various funding mechanisms in place for our M.S. and B.S. research students More information about financial support for master's students can be found on the Microbiology Master's website.

​