Hi, all –
I would like to propose a project-based DIYbio course for IG (probably a few sessions long), focused on the construction of genetic switches (to control fluorescent protein expression) as the basis for an introduction to concepts in synthetic biology. In addition to providing students with a solid foundation in molecular biology, it would also provide some new tools and data that would actually be useful to “real world” researchers everywhere.
Topics would include:
Introduction to DNA, genetic components, and genetic design
Biosafety
Basic microbiological techniques
PCR
DNA construction
Delivering DNA into cells
DNA sequencing and analysis
Depending on the class size, the materials would probably cost ~$15 per person, and then we could figure out how much additional $ should be charged to go to IG. At BioCurious, I taught an introductory 6 week course on metabolic engineering with 20 students who each paid ~$200; that’s the Bay Area though.
There are some nuts and bolts issues to work out (e.g., I have the gear, but I’m not sure where it would go – maybe it would have to wait for the new space?), but I wanted to at least bring up the idea for discussion.
Thanks!
Lou