From the Science Faculty

Biology AMGEN Incursion 

During the previous weeks, the Year 12 Biology cohort participated in the AMGEN Biotechnology Experience, featuring a hands-on molecular biology curriculum. 

Provided with research-grade equipment and resources from the University of Sydney, students were given the opportunity to practically investigate the processes and components of genetic engineering, as utilised in the real-world. As a result, students were exposed to tertiary-level biology, and subsequently, informed of the possibilities in biotechnological careers. 

Students further learnt how to correctly apply micro-pipetting, gel electrophoresis and PCR under appropriate lab conditions to produce fluorescent bacteria containing a gene from a sea anemone. Furthermore, students explored the practical uses of biotechnology in conjunction with the reconfiguration of recombinant DNA in real-world scenarios, as viewed in the synthesis of widely-used pharmaceuticals such as Insulin. 

Ultimately, the Amgen Biotechnology Experience permitted students to solidify and strengthen their understanding of the necessary processes and practical uses of biotechnology required by the NSW HSC syllabus. 

On behalf of the Year 12 Biology cohort, thank you to the Biology Teachers: Mr Clough, Mr Sims and Mr Chandler for taking the time to organise and run the incursion together with the Lab Assistants: Ms Akeed and Ms Arena. 

Dylan Luu

Prefect