Biotechnology

This advanced laboratory class prepares students for internships in research labs. Students will learn important techniques in molecular biology including gel electrophoresis, restriction enzyme digests, primer design, DNA amplification by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), nucleic acid extraction and purification, genetic engineering, bacterial/yeast transformations, DNA sequencing, protein isolation, protein purification and visualization, enzyme linked immunoassays (ELISA), and chromatography. In the process, skills of trouble-shooting, data analysis and effective scientific communication will be emphasized. Students will also learn about the historical development as well as ethical considerations and societal impacts of biotechnology. As a capstone, students will design and conduct an experiment to determine whether food products have been genetically modified.

Students accepted into the Independent Science Research Program (ISRP) are required to enroll in the course during the spring semester of Class XI.

Space is limited, and priority is given to participants in the Independent Science Research Program. Students who are interested in taking the course but are not participating in the full Independent Science Research Program (ISRP) will be admitted by seniority as space permits.