Case Study: Connecting Students with Biotechnology Jobs for National Security

The challenge:

Design deep-impact curriculum that introduces high school and college students to high-demand military and civilian biotechnology careers.

The program:

Emerging Leaders in STEM is an intensive 40-hour program to familiarize high school and college participants with biotechnology jobs in a cohort environment builds lasting relationships to carry students into careers with a network of support. Hands-on laboratory techniques are introduced with a discussion of relevance in DoD laboratories, to provide context for the different types of applications a simple technique can have. Career-building sessions highlight the contributions of early career scientists and focus on critical soft skills like aligning coursework to meet professional goals, networking, and interviewing techniques.

During the laboratory intensive, high school students are paired with a college-age mentor to explore more advanced topics. Although content varies by cohort, during a typical laboratory intensive students explore CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing and genetic engineering and gain expertise in transformation, CRISPR, gel electrophoresis, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Advanced laboratory experiences include:

Mendelian Genetics:
Participants use polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to analyze DNA and test genetic inheritance, while exploring statistical analysis of genetic data.
Synthetic Biology:
Participants use cell free systems to visualize the processes of transcription and translation using fluorescence.
Biomarkers:
Participants learn how fluorescence and other markers are used as tools to visualize biological processes through analysis of enzyme function.
Editing Genomes:
Participants will learn genetic modification through completion of a CRISPR experiment, analysis of DNA excision, and verification through PCR.