Code-E-coli: DNA Boot Up

Ready to boot up your first line of DNA code for a living organism?

In this hands-on workshop, Code-E-coli: DNABoot Up, you’ll learn the fundamentals of genetic engineering. Think of DNA as a biological program and bacteria as a living computer. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to boot up a simple DNA program that will make bacteria a different color that glows in the dark.

We'll guide you step-by-step through the entire process. You will learn how to grow a common, harmless strain of E. coli, in a lab setting. Then, using a technique called bacterial transformation, you'll insert a tiny loop of DNA that has our "program” into the bacteria. This DNA loop is called a plasmid and contains the DNA code for a fluorescent protein.

By the end of the workshop, you will see the remarkable results of your work firsthand. You will have successfully "booted up" a genetic program, causing the transformation of your bacteria from plain white and boring to a lively magenta color that glows under blue light. No prior experience is needed! This workshop is the perfect way to get started with the powerful and exciting field of biotechnology.

Details:

This is a 3-day Workshop, meeting on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM. Your ticket covers all 3 days and all materials. Age Recommendation: 12+

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