The course consists of 3 independent laboratory assignments. Techniques used

• Antimicrobial assays 
• DNA cloning
• Protein purification
• DNA and protein sequence analyses

The students write extensive laboratory reports after each assignment, covering

• description of the experiments
• presentation of the results
• discussion of the results (both positive and negative results)
• conclusion

Knowledge

Students will gain insight on and hands-on experience with some central technologies in molecular biology, such as PCR, cloning, gel electrophoresis, bioinformatic tools for sequence analyses, and purification of DNA and protein. Another central aspect of the course is to learn how to write scientific reports based on experimental data.

Skills

Students can make use of their theoretical knowledge and lab-experience to solve some simple biological problems, such as to use bioinformatic tools to search for sequences, to do sequence analysis, to design and clone a gene, to control gene expression, to measure biological activity, and to follow and perform protocols for DNA and protein purification and analysis.

Acquired skills can later contribute in the development of various molecular tools to solve important problems in the society or in the environment. E.g., to

• improve health by producing vitamines and better and healthier food,
• secure life quality on land and in waters by removing toxic pollutants through enzymatic processes,
• produce more food using genetic technologies, and
• develop new medicines for human and veterinary use.

These opportunities and challenges are central in many UN sustainable development goals. 

General competence

Students should

• have an overview of and the ability to use central molecular tools in bioresearch,
• have increased self-confidence in labwork,
• be able to work in research, on projects with supervision, and
• be able to write reports based on experimental data. 

• Cell biology equivalent to BIO100.
• Genetics equivalent to BIO120.
• Microbiology equivalent to BIO130.

Two weeks' intensive course: Laboratory assignments will be discussed before they are given. Laboratory work will be explained and followed up on. The class will review and discuss laboratory results. Writing of journals during the course.

Unless otherwise notified, the lab part of the course will take place during the first two weeks of June-block. Deadline to submit the reports is two weeks after the lab part.

Students must be present all day during the course. It is not possible to include other activities during the course period.

The written exam in BIO210 (or an equivalent course) must be passed before the student can enter the course. This arrangement exists for two reasons: to ensure that the student's theoretical knowledge is sufficient to conduct practical exercises, and to maintain the proper microbial security of the course.

Maximum 48 students, prioritized as follows:

• students who have passed the course BIO210 (or equivalent) and have BIO211 as a mandatory course in their education plan
• students who have passed the course BIO210 (or equivalent)
• the grade obtained on the course BIO210 (or equivalent course)