Exploring Biotechnology

June 22-27, 2025

Learn the basics of biotechnology. Find out how it works and explore the implications – where will this technology take us? And what are the ethical implications? 

​​Genetic modification is a practice that previously was only associated with the agricultural industry. This technology has enabled us to minimize crop loss by preventing invasion by pests, among other crucial benefits. More recently, genetic modification of salmon has been approved by the FDA, and the discovery of CRISPR has opened the door to potentially modifying human genomes to cure disease.

With an understanding of the basic tools of molecular biology, head into the laboratory, where you’ll test agricultural products for genetic modification. You’ll use CRISPR technology to modify the genome of E. coli to produce an effect visible to the naked eye. 

In this immersive week-long experience, you will learn how to:

• Learn the theory behind basic tools of molecular biology
• Clone DNA
• Use CRISPR to modify the genome of E. coli
• Visualize bacterial growth and changes in bacteria after genetic modification
• Extract genomic DNA from E. coli
• Visualize DNA using gel electrophoresis
• Discuss ethical considerations of biotechnology
• Transform a genetically modified plasmid into bacteria to check for fluorescence
• Test foods for genetic modification

By completing this experience, you’ll be eligible for one college credit in biology.