BIOL020: Dynamic Genome
Get Lab-Ready for Research Opportunities: What Makes This Course Essential
BIOL020 is an intensive, 100% hands-on course that teaches molecular biology techniques used every day by research labs, biotech companies, and graduate programs.
From day one, students will be at the bench, mastering techniques that set them apart in competitive research positions, internships, and graduate programs.
Skills You'll Master:
- DNA Extraction & Purification – Learn to isolate high-quality DNA from various biological samples
- PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) – Amplify specific DNA sequences and troubleshoot common issues
- Gene Cloning – Insert genes into plasmid vectors and transform bacterial cells
- Regulation of Gene Expression Analysis – Study switch on/off mechanism of genes
- Gel Electrophoresis – Separate and visualize DNA and proteins using agarose and polyacrylamide gels
- Sterile Technique – Master aseptic methods for working with bacterial cultures
- Laboratory Documentation – Maintain detailed lab notebooks following professional standards
Real-World Applications:
The techniques you learn in BIOL020 directly prepare you for:
- Undergraduate research positions in faculty laboratories
- Competitive summer research programs (REUs, internships)
- Graduate school applications and interviews
- Graduate, Medical and dental school laboratory coursework
- Independent senior research projects
Course Structure:
- Small laboratory sections ensure individual attention and hands-on time
- Weekly laboratory sessions with guided experiments
- Independent troubleshooting and problem-solving opportunities
- Collaborative learning environment
- Laboratory notebook and reports develop scientific communication skills
Who Should Enroll:
This course is designed for students at all experience levels. Whether you've never set foot in a research lab or have some prior experience, our curriculum builds skills progressively from foundational techniques to advanced applications.
No Prior Laboratory Experience Required – We assume you're starting from scratch and build your skills methodically.
FAQs
Do I need prior lab experience? BIOL020 is designed for beginners. We start with basic molecular biology laboratory skills and build progressively to advanced techniques.
What if I'm nervous about working in a lab? Small section sizes mean you'll get plenty of individual attention and support. By the end of the quarter, you'll feel confident and competent.
How will this course help my career? These are the specific skills that appear in research job postings and that PIs look for when hiring undergraduate researchers. You'll be able to list concrete technical abilities on your resume.
What's the time commitment? Six lab hours per week plus time for laboratory reports and pre-lab preparation. The hands-on nature means most work happens during scheduled lab time.
Can I take this course if I'm pre-med/pre-vet/pre-dental? Absolutely! These molecular biology techniques are fundamental to biomedical research and will strengthen your application and prepare you for laboratory coursework.
What equipment will I use? You'll work with micropipettes, thermal cyclers (for PCR), gel electrophoresis apparatus, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, microscopes, and other standard molecular biology equipment.