Learn how scientists identify and analyze Covid-19 variants through hands-on experience with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and agarose gel electrophoresis. Step into the role of a laboratory analyst as you conduct real PCR reactions with simulated patient DNA samples and analyze your results using gel electrophoresis. You'll gain deep insights into how PCR testing works, including the fascinating science behind primer design and molecular detection methods.
The lab experience opens up thoughtful discussions about viral research and biosafety. For those wanting to dive even deeper, we offer an optional bioinformatics module focused on analyzing SARS-CoV-2 spike protein mutations. This computational component helps explain how virus variants emerge and evolve. To include the bioinformatics module with your lab day, simply note this in the comments section when booking.
Duration: 9-14:30h (approx.)
Number of students: up to 32
Laboratory activities and biochemical working methods:
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Pipetting with the microlitre pipette
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Carrying out a PCR (polymerase chain reaction)
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Checking the PCR results using agarose gel electrophoresis
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Sequence analysis using bioinformatics (optional)
Recommended prior knowledge:
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Structure of DNA
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Polymerase chain reaction - process and required enzymes, function of primers
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Point mutations - silent, missense, nonsense
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Structure of bacteria - especially plasmids
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Gel electrophoresis
There will be more courses on various topics in the future.
