Introduction to Molecular Biology

Hands-on introduction to modern molecular biology techniques. You will learn to isolate DNA and a gene through polymerase chain reaction (PCR), cloning DNA fragments in plasmid vectors, bacterial transformation and plasmid DNA purification, restriction digestion and gel electrophoresis, gene transfer and expression of reporter genes in cell lines through a biolistic gene gun. Lectures and assigned reading will cover the theory and applications of these techniques. Laboratory techniques learned in this course will prepare students for biotechnology and health related professional studies.

Introduction to Microbiology and Biochemistry

Introduction to Microbiology and Biochemistry is designed to introduce students interested in the fields of medicine, veterinary medicine, pharmacology, biotechnology, food science, immunology, infectious diseases, and inherited diseases to laboratory techniques through hands-on experience. The course will offer two weeks of laboratory techniques in microbiology and two weeks of biochemistry laboratory techniques. The Microbiology portion of the course will engage students in basic concepts of microbiology, such as identification and classification of microorganisms, and growth requirements of microorganisms. During the Biochemistry portion of the course, students will receive hands on experience with DNA isolation and analysis, protein isolation and purification, column chromatography, DNA and protein electrophoresis and enzyme assays. Students will also have the opportunity to visit laboratories using the analytical techniques of x-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectroscopy.

Principles of Applied Biotechnology

Principles of Applied Biotechnology is a hands-on laboratory introduction to the steps of biologically manufacturing pharmaceutical products that treat and prevent illnesses.  The course introduces students to basic biomanufacturing tools and experiences, coupled with data analysis, interpretation, and presentation.  The module provides a hands-on learning experience that challenges students to enhance existing skills, learn new information, and apply learning to real world problems.  The course will expect students to clone and grow cells, express, clarify, purify, formulate and vial a recombinant protein.  Lectures, course work and assigned reading will cover the theory and applications of these techniques.  The course targets students with career interests in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, bioprocessing science, chemical engineering, biopharmaceutical engineering and medical research.