Description:

Research Experience for Teachers: Translating Scientific Research for the Science Classroom

Presented by The Center for Synthetic Biology & The Baxter Center

July 22nd - August 2nd | Northwestern University, Evanston Campus

Does the idea of gaining research experience at a university lab sound exciting to you? The Research Experience for Teachers is a 2 week, paid program that gives outstanding teachers the opportunity to conduct experiments with researchers from Northwestern University's Center for Synthetic Biology and work on curriculum development with Baxter Center staff.

Synthetic biology uses tools and concepts from physics, engineering, and computer science to build new biological systems. Much of synthetic biology research focuses on reprogramming cells by changing their DNA. Once reprogrammed, cells can take on new, specialized purposes, such as creating sustainable chemicals, next generation materials, or targeted therapeutics. 

Experiments and techniques that teachers will work on include:

Cell-free protein synthesis
DNA manipulation/cloning
Biobits/CRISPR
Biosensors
Biobits pilot for water contaminates

Illinois licensed teachers will be eligible to receive 40 hours (spread over 2 weeks) of professional development that can be used toward Illinois teacher licensure renewal.

Applications are closed at this time.