PCR and electrophoresis labs for forensic science classes
Over the past several years, forensics has become a go-to science elective, sure to engage science nerds and avowed nonscientists alike. And what’s not to love? Forensics is a great way to acquaint students with the real-life tools professionals use to solve scientific problems, including biotechnology.
To help you introduce your students to the biology tools in the forensic scientist’s toolkit, we offer a full lineup of forensics labs for learners across the spectrum:
- Dye Electrophoresis Lab: Princes in the Tower In 1483, two English princes vanished, and their remains have never been identified. Inspired by this real-life mystery, students explore forensic DNA analysis using room-temperature-stable dye samples.
- Electrophoresis Forensics Lab: Wrongfully Convicted? Prisoner J.M. has always maintained his innocence. In this lab, students use electrophoresis to explore whether new DNA evidence supports J.M.’s original conviction.
- DNA Fingerprinting Lab: Shark Attack! Shark attacks have been menacing Australian beachgoers. In this electrophoresis-only lab, students use DNA fingerprinting to determine whether a single shark is to blame.
- Forensics Lab: Analysis of the D1S80 VNTR. A crime has occurred in your classroom! Your students will use PCR and electrophoresis on their own DNA to try and clear their names.
So which one is right for you? That depends on who your students are and how much time you can devote to a lab. Let us break it down for you:
| Wrongfully Convicted? | Shark Attack! | Princes in the Tower | Analysis of the D1S80 VNTR | |
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| Time commitment | One 45-minute class period | One 45-minute class period | One 45-minute class period | Two 45-minute class periods or one 150-minute block |
| Techniques | Gel electrophoresis | Gel electrophoresis | Dye electrophoresis | DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis |
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