51986

Provides the necessary communication tools for beginning students placed in off-campus stem cell biology internships. Emphasis is put on demonstrating how their work contributes to the overall the scientific research being conducted at their internship site. Types of internships may include, but are not limited to, differentiation of pluripotent stem cells, FACS analysis, primary cell culture, propagation of iPS cells, immunolocalization, microarray analysis and tumor cell characterization.

A general introduction to the principles of stem cell biology. Topics include embryonic stem cells in early development, adult stem cells, and potential applications of stem cell culture and ethical issues involved in stem cell research. Current research methods involving cell differentiation and fluorescent technology will be presented. Emphasis on laboratory techniques including culture of mouse embryonic stem cells, analysis of stem cells by immunofluorescence and flow cytometry.

Introduction to advanced techniques in the study of normal and mutant tissue culture cells including organelle visualization with various fluorophores, transfection with fluorescent markers, and immunostaining. In depth coverage of the theory behind and use of fluorescent microscopy and current research methods using fluorescent technology, including apoptosis assays and immunocytochemistry, DNA microarrays and FACS analysis.

Introduction to techniques for culturing mammalian cells, including media formulation, aseptic technique, freezing, thawing, subculturing, and maintaining cells. Theory includes maintaining proper growth conditions, preventing contamination, as well as cellular responses to DNA damage and gene expression. Practical experience includes the proper use and care of equipment for culturing cells and performing cell growth and viability assays.

Introduction to techniques for culturing and maintaining mammalian cells, including proper use of equipment, aseptic technique, media formulation, storage, counting and subculturing of cells. Contents include proper growth conditions, cell cycle regulation, cellular responses to DNA damage, growth patterns, viability assays, transfection and an introduction to the use of fluorescent molecules in visualization of cellular structures.

Students will explore various careers in bioscience through online research, informational interviews and interactions with industry professionals. Students will present a summary of a chosen bioscience topic at a scientific meeting. Students will communicate and network with industry professionals, and attend professional workshops and seminars to gain career skills needed for finding internships and jobs in the biotechnology fields.

Support for student interns placed in local bioscience laboratories. Provide tools to effectively communicate internship experience, present scientific concepts and network with professionals in the field. Types of internships may include, but are not limited to, basic research, biomanufacturing, quality control, environmental sciences, and food sciences.

An introduction to laboratory techniques needed for entry-level positions in the biotechnology industry and research laboratories. The course covers basic lab skills such as solution making, bacteria cultures, plasmid DNA and protein purification. Intended as an introductory class for the students in preparation of the more advanced biotechnology classes and/or an internship in a biotechnology lab.

A general overview of Food and Drug Administration regulations as they pertain to the biotechnology field. Knowledge of Current Good Laboratory Practices (cGLP) and Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) is needed to work in biotechnology manufacturing and preclinical research laboratories. The course will emphasize those practices as they pertain to the biopharmaceutical industry.

Introduction to the laboratory skills and concepts necessary to work in the biotechnology industry, allied health or other biology-related fields. This course is part of the learning community Bridge to Biosciences program.