Programs for Teachers

Biotechnology: The Basics

This course is designed to introduce teachers to the fundamentals of biotechnology. The course will begin with a review of DNA structure and function. From there we will explore how different tools are used to investigate and analyze DNA.

Topics include DNA extraction, micropipetting, gel electrophoresis, restriction enzyme digestion, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), bacterial transformation, biomanufacturing, and NASA and biotechnology. In addition, there will be opportunities to discuss bioethics and stem cells, careers and training in biotechnology and biomanufacturing, develop your laboratory preparatory skills, and collaborate with other teachers to integrate biotechnology into your curriculum. If your knowledge of biotechnology is limited or you want to brush up on basic biotechnology techniques, this is the course for you!

Course Application: Enrollment is limited to 16 participants, all of whom are eligible to receive a $625 stipend. Graduate Education Credit will be available.

Biotechnology: Beyond the Basics

This one week laboratory based course is designed for teachers to learn and practice advanced biotechnology techniques used in molecular biology.

Topics and laboratories include: gene expression & protein purification; genetic identity testing using Short Tandem Repeats (STRs); immunology - antibody isolation and detection; DNA sequencing; bioinformatics; genomic editing; biofuels; biomanufacturing; biotechnology and NASA; developing coordinated and integrated lab activities and troubleshooting experiments; careers and training in biotechnology and biomanufacturing.

In addition, there will be opportunities to discuss bioethics, develop laboratory preparatory skills, and collaborate with other teachers to integrate biotechnology into the curriculum. Throughout the course the relevance of all content and associated laboratory techniques to NASA projects will be emphasized.

Course Application: Enrollment is limited to 16 participants, all of whom are eligible to receive a $625 stipend. Graduate Education Credit will be available.