I currently work with Cyanobacteria species and the genetic probing of 16s ribosomal sequences. This is employed using the technique called Catalyzed Reduction Fluorescence in situ Hybridization (CARD-FISH). The genetic sequence of interest is bound by a genetic probe which is tagged with a fluorophore. Under ultraviolet light, the sequences can be viewed indicating probe binding. There are however negative aspects of the technique, and what my research focuses on is a modification of the technique in attempts to correct certain unacceptable issues, while comparing various probes of interest. These issues may relate to improper probe binding, poor fixation, poor hybridization, and variations in incubation times.

This technique can be very useful in detecting disease, genes, chromosomal abnormalities, cancer, species identifications, translocations, and various types of genetic related issues.