Education: MSU biologists win prestigious NSF awards to explore genetic errors, invasive species
Mississippi State University biologists Jean-François Gout and Megan Smith have secured prestigious National Science Foundation CAREER awards to advance their research in biological sciences. These five-year grants recognize early-career faculty who demonstrate high potential for research and teaching impact. The university department has seen seven faculty members receive these awards over the past five years, marking a period of sustained academic growth.
Jean-François Gout, an associate professor, received $754,667 to investigate the mechanics of genetic errors. His work focuses on how damage to DNA and RNA affects protein production accuracy and how cellular machinery identifies or repairs these chemical changes. This project aims to improve the understanding of genetic fidelity while introducing new computational training for students and secondary educators.
Megan Smith, an assistant professor, was awarded $779,889 to study invasive slug species across North America. Her research utilizes genomic data, museum specimens, and computational tools to track the origins and spread of agricultural pests such as Arion and Deroceras. By analyzing population-level sampling, she aims to identify specific biological traits that allow some species to thrive in new environments while others remain limited in range.
Both projects integrate significant educational components. Smith plans to create undergraduate courses focused on invasive species and coordinate outreach with local gardeners. Meanwhile, Gout is launching research experiences that connect MSU students to practical computational biology applications. These initiatives reflect the broader goals of the university to support faculty research and provide hands-on training for the next generation of scientists.