Year 9 Accelerated Science

On Wednesday 8th June, students from 9J3 visited the Gene Technology Access Centre (GTAC) to participate in a research program investigating the diversity of Australian marine algae by characterising their DNA barcodes (a collaborative project with CSIRO Australian National Algal Culture Collection). Assisted by their scientist mentors, students used laboratory equipment to isolate DNA from tissue. They prepared a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) mixture, analysed the results of gel electrophoresis, and determined the sizes of PCR fragments against a DNA ladder. The data that the students collected will contribute to defining the geographical distribution of the Bostrychia species and could possibly reveal “cryptic” species. 

Big thank you to the staff at GTAC for providing students an opportunity to collaborate with practicing scientists to explore contemporary knowledge and technology, and to the wonderful students of 9J3 for their curiosity, enthusiasm, and maturity.

Sarah Cashin - Science Teacher 9J3