For Immediate Release Contact: Pat Kremer (312) 665-7100 (For Media Use Only) Modern Mendels Both Dr. Hackett and Dr. Feldheim are featured in the exhibition’s section on modern Mendels. Modern Mendels are contemporary scientists who use Mendel’s findings and their knowledge of genetics to learn about the world around them. Some of this research includes applying genetics in crop cultivation; studying origins and ancestry; mapping genomes; and even solving new mysteries of heredity. Dr. Hackett is working on a major, multi-institutional project to determine the tree-of-life for birds. She and her colleagues examine genetic, physical and behavioral evidence to uncover the evolutionary relationships among major lineages of birds. Dr. Feldheim manages the Museum’s Pritzker Lab, which is dedicated to genetic analysis and preservation of the world's biodiversity. He has a special interest in sharks, particularly lemon sharks. Videos and Hands-on Interactives Reveal Fundamentals of Genetics The exhibition incorporates five videos and ten hands-on interactives to make the fundamentals of genetics accessible to everyone. Visitors can have fun recreating the steps of Mendel’s great experiment; identify dominant and recessive traits on themselves; look through a microscope to compare what scientists were able to see at different points in history; and analyze DNA sequences like modern-day scientists. An Exhibition of Science and Art Gregor Mendel: Planting the Seeds of Genetics reveals the dramatic story of the father of modern genetics through approximately 100 objects, including Mendel’s botanical specimens, scientific instruments, photographs, correspondence, original manuscripts, journals, books and, yes, gardening tools. Because Mendel was not recognized for his brilliant work during his lifetime, very few of his papers or personal possessions were kept. A highly unusual and innovative feature of this exhibition is the integration of contemporary works of art that explore the subject of genetics. Throughout the exhibition, these works emphasize the spirit of insight and inspiration, inquiry and innovation that drove Mendel – and that continues to drive scientific research and discovery today. The exhibition was developed by The Field Museum in partnership with The Vereinigung zur Förderung der Genomforschung in Vienna, Austria, and The Mendel Museum in Brno, Czech Republic. After its run at The Field Museum it will travel to as many as four venues. Continue >>