The Course
Biotechnology and Molecular Sciences is an innovating science education that is normally offered as an upper level college course. It integrates key concepts in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Informational Sciences, laying out the core concepts of Molecular Biology. The course emphasis is on engaging student’s interest through hands-on learning, inquiry and problem solving and applying the understanding of the molecular nature of biological processes to real-world problems.
Prerequisites and Goals of the Course
Biotechnology is designed to be taken by students only after the successful completion of a first course in high school Biology and Chemistry. High school Physics and AP Chemistry can be taken prior to or concurrently with Biotechnology and Molecular Sciences, although AP Chemistry is highly recommended.
The purpose of this course is for students to be able to apply the fundamentals of Molecular Biology to genetic engineering along with gaining experience in technical skills that are key to Recombinant DNA Technology. The lab component involves a sequential learning process in analysis and manipulation of DNA and Proteins with strong emphasis on scientific methodology, experimental controls and critical interpretation of results in DNA and Protein manipulation.
Topics
The curriculum will cover topics in the following areas:
- Introduction and overview of Modern Biotechnology
- DNA Science (history, structure, chemistry, function, expression, regulation, signal transduction)
- Genetic Engineering (recombinant DNA vectors, cloning, stem cell research, gene therapy and bioinformatics)
- Application of Biotechnology (medical, agricultural, environmental, pharmaceutical and forensic)
- Bioethics
- Business of Biotech (from discovery to marketing)
The labs will focus on developing the following skills:
- Extraction, transformation and restriction enzyme analysis of DNA
- Fingerprinting, PCR of DNA
- Bioinformatics -- use of the web for analysis of DNA sequences
- Protein extraction and separation
- Protein fingerprinting
- ELISA assays
Students will be trained to write lab reports that conforms to the guidelines of standard scientific publications.
Expectations
Students will be expected to submit reports for every lab and strictly adhere to all safety regulations required for Biotech labs. Student evaluation will be based on lab reports, class exams and a final integrative presentation on Application of Biotechnology.
Eligibility
The requirements for the AP Chemistry course will be utilized (minus the Physics Regents and SERP criteria) for determining which students will be offered a seat in the Biotechnology and Molecular Sciences course.
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* Denotes college credit granted via the St. John's College Extension Program.
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