Summer Explorations in Biotechnology

These discoveries will come through interactions with plants grown by the students and available on campus. In the lab, students will discover how biotechnology techniques, like transformation, can be used to increase plant yield, nutritional value, and drought resistance. They’ll also explore various techniques that allow scientists to identify modified organisms. To further explore what helps plants grow and thrive, lab activities will dive into the fascinating world of microbes, highlighting the essential relationships between plants and microbes. Students will learn how to use a microscope, prepare their own microscope slides, practice aseptic technique, culture microbial samples, and even create colorful microbial art on Petri dishes. As part of the week-long experiences, students will also practice science communication, learning how to convey scientific concepts, share their observations, and present their work. Together, these summer explorations in biotech combine creativity, discovery, and real scientific tools to inspire curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.