Nanopore Sequencing for Student Research

Join us this spring to see how nanopore sequencing—a portable, cost-effective alternative to traditional commercial services—can be integrated into your classroom. This workshop demonstrates how to use nanopore technology for real-world applications, including generating DNA barcodes and performing microbiome or metabarcoding analyses.

The DNA Learning Center and Oxford Nanopore have collaborated to adapt these professional workflows for education, streamlining the protocol to ensure the technology is accessible for student use. Additionally, we will showcase the redeveloped DNA Subway 2.0, which now supports full mobile use and a dedicated line for metabarcoding analysis, enabling users to “analyze anywhere”.

Finally, attendees will learn how the DNALC’s Nanopore Research Accelerator partnership can offer ongoing support for implementing these projects in their own schools.

2026 Chancellor’s Day PD

Bacterial Transformation and Restriction Analysis

Join us to review two classic biology experiments!

Bacterial Transformation

Bacterial transformation illustrates the direct link between an organism's genetics (genotype) and its observable characteristics (phenotype), and demonstrates how genetic engineering is used to produce human proteins such as insulin. In this lab participants will introduce genes for antibiotic resistance and fluorescence into the bacterium E. coli. Following overnight incubation, transformed bacteria can be compared to control bacteria for their ability to grow in the presence of ampicillin and glow when exposed to UV light.

Restriction Analysis

The DNA restriction analysis experiment demonstrates that DNA can be precisely manipulated with enzymes that recognize and cut specific target sequences. In this lab, restriction enzymes—the scissors of molecular biology—are used to digest DNA from the bacteriophage lambda. After cutting, the DNA fragments are visualized by agarose gel electrophoresis, allowing students to identify a “mystery” enzyme through comparison with controls.

These experiments directly correlate with lab requirements for AP Biology courses and align with the New York State Science Learning Standards, with an emphasis on analyzing and interpreting data, planning and carrying out investigations and the structure and function relationship. Guided by an experienced DNALC educator, training will focus on lab skills and conceptual connections.

There is no charge to attend. Participants may receive CTLE hours, if requested. Teachers will then be eligible to rent a footlocker kit from the DNA Learning Center to teach these labs in their classroom. 

Past Event

DNA Subway 2.0 Educator Webinar

With the legacy platform retiring in June 2025, this workshop guides educators through the essential transition to DNA Subway 2.0. We will conduct a live walkthrough of the new mobile-first interface, demonstrate the expanded Blue Line capabilities for Oxford Nanopore sequencing, and cover the practical steps for migrating your curriculum. Join us to ensure your lab materials are updated and ready for the next academic year.

Join Jason Williams for a live, virtual demonstration of DNA Subway 2.0, with a walk-through of the new interface, enhanced Blue Line analysis tools, and more. This is your chance to ask questions, troubleshoot, and receive personalized guidance on how to integrate DNA Subway 2.0 into your teaching.