Amber Hammes participated in Iowa State University's Science with Practice program

2015 Feb 26

Amber Hammes, of Ankeny, IA, 50023, majoring in Animal Science at #IowaState, was a participant in the Science with Practice program. Science with Practice is a learning and work experience program in research and related laboratories. Students work closely with faculty and graduate students to gain experience in their field of study.

Students are able to conduct research and form mentoring relationships with faculty while earning money and academic credit. The program allows students to develop an understanding of the links between research and practical real-world situations and problems.

Hammes was advised by Dr. John Patience, professor, on a project titled "the Efficiency of the β-mannanase enzyme in improving nutrient digestibility in nursery and finishing pigs." This project was to determine if the β-mannanase enzyme improves apparent total tract digestibility of energy and dry matter, and if the enzyme improves nitrogen retention in nursery (25kg) and finishing (55kg) pigs. Amber collected biological asmple [urine, feces] and undertook laboratory assays [gross energy, nitrogen, dry matter] to determine digestibility and nitrogen retention to detmine effectiveness of the enzyme.

In total, 23 students and 20 faculty participated in the program during Fall 2014. As part of the program, students establish individualized learning agreements, create a final portfolio and complete biweekly journals of their semester progress. The semester concludes with a public poster presentation where students share their projects and experiences.

The Science with Practice program has linked students with faculty research for 10 years. Students may participate in the program multiple semesters. For more information visit www.ageds.iastate.edu/SWP.

This program is funded by the ISU Agricultural Endowment Board and College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.