Week 1: July 6-10, 2020 - Biotechnology Essentials & Beyond

Biotechnology is a diverse field that includes tools and techniques that are used in all fields of biology. This camp includes micropipetting; DNA purification, PCR and sequence analysis used to identify species (also called "DNA Barcoding"); making a genetically modified organism (GMO); and visits with scientists from the Puget Sound area.  This camp is designed for rising freshman, rising sophomores, and campers of any age interested in basic biotechnology training.  This camp also provides all of the training needed for subsequent camps.

Molecular biology and biotechnology skills development including:

• Micropipetting
• DNA Purification & DNA Sequencing
• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
• Discussions with Scientists
• Using computers to view macromolecules & analyzing DNA data for species identification and genetic testing

Week 2: July 20-24, 2020 - Biotechnology & Orca Conservation

Orcas (also known as Killer Whales or Orcinus orca) are an iconic species central to the ecosystem and culture of the Pacific Northwest. In recent years, our Southern Resident Orcas have faced great challenges to their long-term survival, including food insecurity and stress from boat and ship traffic in the Puget Sound. In order to help them survive, we must understand the greatest threats to their health. Analyzing scat provides an opportunity to evaluate Orca health in a non-invasive way without adding to their stress. In addition to learning many techniques associated with scat studies and how to evaluate the health of the Puget Sound food web, campers will also be able to meet with the scientists at the University of Washington engaged in this cutting-edge and vital research. This camp will also include tours of other research labs at the University of Washington and is designed for rising juniors and seniors, PROJECT BIOTECH camp alumni, or other students with more biotechnology experience.

Molecular biology and biotechnology skills development including:

• Advanced lab techniques to analyze Orca health: Polymerase Chain Reaction, SDS-PAGE, Western blots & ELISAs
• Research lab tours at the University of Washington
• Career panel and discussions with scientists
• Biotechnology & career exploration

Week 3: August 3-7, 2020 - Biotechnology & Cancer:  Causes, Cures, Careers 

Campers will learn about cancer biology using a case studies of breast cancer patients to explore how Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISAs), Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), genetic testing (bioinformatics), and Fluorescent Cell Staining are used to diagnose cancer, determine the cause of a particular cancer, and develop targeted therapies to treat cancer. Campers will also learn about the cell cycle, tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes, how mutations in genes involved in DNA repair or cell division can cause cancer, and how antibodies are used as both diagnostic and therapeutic tools. This camp will also include tours of local research institutions near downtown Seattle and is designed for rising juniors and seniors, PROJECT BIOTECH camp alumni, or other students with more biotechnology experience.

Molecular biology and biotechnology skills development including:Genetic mutations which can result in cancer

• Bioinformatics relevant to cancer diagnosis and
  treatment
• Lab assays for DNA and protein analysis
• Tour of biotech companies
• Career panel and discussions with scientists