The goal of the High School Human Genome Program is to engage students in the research process by enabling them to contribute to an authentic research project. From 1996 to 1998, students collaborated in the research effort of UW scientists Eric Lynch and Mary Claire King to identify the mutation that causes deafness in this family.Students are currently sequencing a segment of human chromosome 1 that encompasses the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene in collaboration with University of Washington scientist Carl Ton. Student data is contributing to Dr. Ton’s investigation of human genetic variation in the nicotine receptor gene. Ultimately, this study will shed light on our understanding of nicotine addiction and ways to treat it.

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