HSC Biology ~ Biotechnology - From GFP to Electrophoresis

Come and learn these invaluable hands-on experiments directly related to the NSW Biology Syllabus and collect 5 PD Hours. Matt Dodds from Science with Mat Pty Ltd will guide you in person to proficiency, so you can take these new found skills straight to your next classroom lesson and have you performing these Practical's with confidence. This course is designed for both the current and the incoming syllabus. 

Lab Technicians are also encouraged to attend to ensure they know each step of the experiments and are able to competently prepare what is needed to successfully complete these prac's.

OUTLINE OF THE DAY:

We first begin by experimentally carrying out DNA Electrophoresis. This involves learning sample extraction techniques, agarose gel casting, and sample loading with pipettes. Progressing to running our DNA Electrophoresis Gel and analysing the results. 

This activity spans across many Biology topics as it incorporates; a single nucleotide polymorphism in the form of Sickle Cell Anaemia, Medical Applications of Biotechnology, the infectious disease Malaria and then finally the inheritance pattern of Sickle Cell Anaemia.

Next, participants will observe different stages of mitosis through microscopy and learn how to capture high quality images of mitosis.

We then learn to perform a Bacterial Transformation, utilising E.coli and a plasmid containing the GFP gene (Green Fluorescent Protein). This Nobel prize winning protein (2008 Shimomura, Chalfie & Tsien) can be transformed into a bacterial cell causing it to glow! 

Lastly, you will learn about the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and how this can be used to amplify small quantities of DNA and RNA for detection, as is the case with Coronavirus PCR detection and detection of Genetically Modified Food.

We hope to share all our tips and tricks for running these experiments effectively at your school.

N.B. This workshop is practical in nature, and you will need to bring the following items:

• Bottle of water and lunch

• Laptop

• Lab coat

• Safety goggles

• Closed-in  footwear

Each participant will receive a certificate of course completion for 5 hours of Professional Development.

Please contact Matt Dodds if you have any questions on 0401827758 or info@sciencewithmat.com.au