Design of Experiments in Biology

Presenter

Evelyn Jean Moore

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

Jessica Rocheleau, Department of Biology, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 4, 2:30 PM - 3:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board A50, Campus Center Auditorium, Row 3 (A41-A60) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

The foundation of biological experimentation lies in the application of the scientific method, with experimental design serving as a pivotal component. Despite its significance, failures in experimental design are common among published work, and likely even more common among undergraduate work. Such failures lead to invalid results and conclusions with potential downstream impacts on scientific knowledge and understanding. Drawing from methods originally introduced in Design of Experiments (1935) by Sir Ronald A. Fisher combined with statistical power of design analysis, this thesis aims to dissect the quality of experimental designs within the framework of undergraduate biology theses at UMass Amherst. Through comprehensive analysis of past honors theses, supplemented by a review of literature on Design of Experiments (DoE) principles, my goal is to determine whether undergraduate honors theses in biology demonstrate effective experimental design and to explore the implications of insufficient experimental design. Initial findings suggest potential shortcomings in experimental design, possibly stemming from lack of understanding and indicating weaknesses in experimental design education. Failure to account for uncontrolled factors, negligence of design, and sample size are likely leading cause for poor power. By innovatively using the honors theses as a lens into experimental design proficiency, this study offers a novel perspective on identifying gaps in understanding and underscores the importance of robust experimental design.

Keywords

Experimental Design, Higher Education, Statistical DoE

Research Area

Biological Organisms

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