Real-Life Communication -- Solution
Here's an example of what your grant application letter might look
like:
To whom it may concern,
DNA is the building
block of life. It provides the blueprint from which species develop. The study
of ancient DNA can help us understand the history of life on this planet and
may, in turn, help us predict its genetic future.
In the past, scientists
have disagreed on the authenticity of old DNA samples. For instance, skeptics
have said that DNA reported to be over 135 million years old was likely contaminated
by bacteria. But now samples can be independently tested for authenticity.
Our research team has discovered a way to accurately measure the authenticity
of ancient DNA.
Racemization is the chemical change that converts the
amino acids in proteins from one mirror-image form to another. We've found
that racemization takes place at almost exactly the same rate as DNA degradation.
If amino acids in a sample show chemical conversion, then it is safe to conclude
the original DNA is also gone. In preliminary research, we've found that only
insects preserved in amber have retained their original DNA. We are anxious
to continue our research.
We believe this sort of DNA chemical verification
is a key component to DNA research. Uncontaminated DNA can be a stepping-stone
to greater understanding of the evolution of DNA. As more diseases are linked
to genetic programming, we don't believe the government can afford to ignore
further research in this area. A complete outline of our research proposal
is available on request. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Your
Name
Your letter strikes a chord with the government
board reviewing applications for funding. They request a complete outline
of your research proposal. Great news. Good work!
Communication skills,
including good writing and presentation skills, are very important, says biochemist
Penny Beuning.
"And computer skills in general, I think,"
says Beuning. "It's good to know what are the capabilities of PowerPoint,
what are the capabilities of Excel. A lot of people don't fully understand
those things, and that's very useful to know -- how to design a good presentation,
to make a simple slide that gets a point across."