Synthetic Biology

In-Person Synthetic Biology

Brooklyn DNALC location only

Synthetic biology builds on genetic engineering by moving beyond the modification of single genes. Blending biology, engineering, and computer science, this field focuses on designing and constructing biological parts, circuits, and networks that enable new functions in cells and organisms.

In this camp, students will explore research and industry applications of synthetic biology, including DNA mutagenesis to create new genes, genome assembly to piece together an organism’s genetic blueprint, and cell-free systems to manufacture biological products. Experiments will employ state-of-the-art techniques like specialized long-read PCR, nanopore sequencing, and Gibson cloning, introducing students to modern biotechnology techniques while fostering creativity and real-world problem-solving skills.

Campers will:

• extract and amplify large regions of DNA from bacteria;
• introduce mutations into fluorescent protein genes and assemble new plasmids;
• use nanopore sequencing and bioinformatic analysis to verify DNA designs;
• generate harmless viruses from genomic DNA in a cell-free system.