Introducing Modern Molecular Biology and Biotechnology to Students and Public In Kentucky Areas

Modern Molecular Biology and Biotechnology impact multiple areas of biology and chemistry, such as genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, medicine, and agriculture. Training in biotechnology and molecular biology techniques is critical for students who wish to pursue careers in the life sciences and agriculture. Two USDA 1890 Institution Capacity Building Grants “Development of Biotechnology Courses to Enhance Aquaculture and Life Science Programs and Recruit Students to Kentucky State University” and “Creation of Summer Educational Opportunities in Biotechnology to Recruit Students and Enhance Stem Areas at Kentucky State University” were funded in 2005 and 2008 respectively to implement a biotechnology training pipeline from middle school through post-secondary education, and provide experimental experiences in modern biology to students and the public in Kentucky. For post-secondary students, two undergraduate courses “Understanding Biotechnology” and “Advanced Molecular Biotechnology” have been offered and about 50 students have participated in the courses. The students gained experience using common tools of molecular biology (e.g., DNA isolation, Southern and Western Blots, DNA sequencing, and PCR), genetic engineering, cloning, gene therapy, the human genome project, forensic DNA, bioremediation, biodiversity, and bioterrorism in the class, and gained “hands on” experience in the laboratory portions. The students also learned the applications of various molecular and bioinformatics databases and software, including Genbank, EMBL, BLAST, etc. The grants also provided the students with research internship opportunities in multiple research laboratories. The students applied the techniques they learned in the classes to a research environment, and presented their research outcomes in national /local scientific meetings. The courses and research experiences laid the ground work for graduate school opportunities and biology-related careers after graduation. More courses and summer-workshops will be offered to students and the public to promote understanding of modern biology and biotechnology.