Fun with DNA is an entry-level course in DNA science. This camp is designed especially for highly motivated students interested in expanding their knowledge of basic genetics and cell biology. Students are immersed in an environment of hands-on activities and laboratory experiments designed to increase genetic literacy, encourage critical and creative thinking, and spark interest in the field of biotechnology.

Students will:

• construct cell and DNA models;
• use compound microscopes to view various cell types;
• extract DNA from their own cells and from plants;
• use stereo microscopes to observe mutations in fruit flies; and 
• genetically engineer bacteria cells with firefly genes.

Details:

• Entering grades 6–7
• Monday to Thursday 9:30am-2:30pm, Parent Day Friday, 9:30-11:00am
• $600 per student

Experience the process of science in this project-based camp. A short "DNA barcode" (about 700 nucleotides in length) is a unique pattern of DNA sequence that can potentially identify any living thing. DNA barcoding projects allow students to link molecular genetics to ecology and evolution—with the potential to contribute new scientific knowledge about biodiversity, conservation biology, and human effects on the environment.

Students will:

• extract and amplify DNA from tissue samples;
• use web-based bioinformatic tools to analyze DNA sequences and identify species of origin;
• create phylogenetic trees to display genetic and evolutionary relationships;
• use building blocks to model how polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is used to amplify DNA barcodes; and
• complete an open-ended project to investigate food fraud or study biodiversity.

Details:

• Entering grades 10–12
• Monday to Thursday 9:30am-4:00pm, Friday, 9:30am-2:00pm
• $700 per student