Athens, GA —  University of Georgia researchers are trying to learn more about the fatal Ebola virus and how it spreads. Since the deadly break out of the disease that killed more than 4,800 people in Africa last year, scientists are exploring the possibility that those who survived the illnes may pass it to someone else even 6 months after they’re cured. This along with many other infectious diseases are going to be seen with a fresh pair of eyes.

The National Science Foundation is co funding a research experience for undergraduate [REU] site at the University of Georgia. The site explores population biology of infectious diseases and students from around the nation apply to be given the chance to step away from their school desks and step up to the lab. REU site program director Dr. John Drake says the program not only gives students the chance to apply their skills, but also explore other scientific fields they hadn’t encountered before.

“We focus on trying to bring to these students a picture of what it might be to be a professional, to be a scientist in this area,” Drake says.