Genomics Course for Educators

The J. Craig Venter Institute's Genomics Course for Educators is designed to give middle school faculty a thorough understanding of genomics so that their students can become familiar with this rapidly developing and multifaceted field. Topics covered in this course include:

• The biological process by which cells read and follow genetic instructions
• Techniques in molecular biology for manipulating DNA so that it can be studied
• Overview of whole genome shotgun sequencing and all the processes involved in sequencing the human genome
• Overview of new sciences such as metagenomics and synthetic biology.
• Overview of ethical issues such as genetically altered crops, genetic therapy, genes and disease, personalized medicine, the Human Genome Project, and privacy of individual genetic information

Dates for the Courses and Locations

• TBD 2012

Course Details

Building upon the scientific leaders at each location, the course emphasizes the research specialties locally and the Institute researchers present on their current work. Teachers will have the opportunity to identify bacterial communities from soil that are growing in sediment batteries or identify plant species. Laboratory experiences are built around learning and using current molecular biology techniques such as DNA isolation, transformations, electrophoresis and DNA sequencing. Ultimately, teachers will take the data generated to analyze with bioinformatics tools. In addition to the week long research project, established and standard-based classroom activities will be presented.

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