DNA and Development Lab Summer Institute

Model classroom exercises

Human population genetics: Genetics is a way of understanding human diversity. In the first set of experiments, students' own DNA is used as the basis for inquiries into human population genetics. Students collect their DNA by a mouthwash technique, amplify variable regions by PCR, and obtain DNA "fingerprints" similar to those used in the courtroom. By comparing their data to national databanks, students become aware of the underlying similarity of all human gene pools. PCR is used to test for a common human genetic variation (PTC tasting) among students.

Zebrafish development: Genetics is also a way of discovering how organisms work. A second set of experiments uses zebrafish, an ideal model for the genetics of vertebrate development. Students observe normal zebrafish development, a fascinating process that can be followed in detail under a dissecting microscope. They observe mutant embryos, and learn how zebrafish can be incorporated into open-ended classroom investigations.

Testing foods for genetic modification (GM): Using a simple antibody-based test, we test common corn and soy foods for proteins that indicate genetic modification. This is a great way to spark awareness of new biotechnology.

Bacteria in the environment. We enable you to identify unknown bacteria in the environment, using PCR -based sequencing provided FREE at our DNA Core! This activity may be combined with Stream Team and other environmental exploration, and with bioinformatics.

Drug and vaccine development. The focus of these lectures is on drug and vaccine development, including new knowledge of human genetic diversity and gene expression, microarrays (DNA chips), the sequencing of malaria and mosquito genomes, combinatorial drug design, HIV vaccine research, neurobiology, controversies about smallpox vaccine and bioterrorism, and the immune system in health and disease.

Teaching workshop. Two days of the Summer Institute consist of workshops in best practices in teaching experimental science and genetics. Dr. Patricia Friedrichsen, a faculty member in MU's Division of Biological Sciences and Department of Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum, leads a workshop on how students conceptualize genetics, and engages teachers in a computer-simulated microbiology lab that explores antibiotic resistance in tuberculosis bacteria. Two "master teachers" who have successfully incorporated the Van Program into their classrooms lead discussions of curricular design and model classroom implementation of the labs.

Courses and Credit

This 2 1/2 week summer course offers three semester units of graduate credit. The instructor is Dr. Miriam Golomb, a member of the biology faculty with extensive experience developing laboratory courses for secondary school teachers. Participants in previous Institutes are welcome to apply and will receive full credit if selected. Participants in the most recent Van Program who have attended a single Institute are especially encouraged to attend and share their expertise in these experiments with new attendees.

Schedule and Housing

The course requires full-time participation during the week. Weekends are free.

For Further Information Contact:

Dr. Miriam Golomb
407 Tucker Hall
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, Mo. 65211-7400
Phone: 573-882-9628
email: GolombM@missouri.edu