The following is a list of basic laboratory technique workshops for the scientist. Each is designed to provide a solid understanding of specific topics utilizing both lecture presentation and laboratory work. by reinforcing the lecture material with significant hands-on laboratory experience, clients are able to apply information/techniques learned into applications in their own laboratories. At the end of the workshop a full workshop review and data troubleshooting session are conducted. 

Introduction to Molecular Biology (Recombinant DNA) Workshop: This 3-day workshop is designed for those with little or no experience in molecular biology. We will cover the basics of nucleic acids, restriction enzyme use, DNA electrophoresis, purification of DNA fragments from agarose gels, preparation of plasmid vectors for subcloning and features and uses of plasmid cloning vectors, DNA ligation reactions, transformation of chemically competent E. coli, screening of recombinant clones, the isolation and analysis of recombinant E. coli clones, and finally an overview of cDNA library construction.

Introduction to Protein Expression: This 3-day workshop will provide an overview of recombinant protein technology, recombinant protein system and vector choices, and prokaryotic expression. Additionally we will discuss the advantages of the eukaryotic expression, the baculovirus system, transformation and reading-frame considerations when expressing proteins in any system. Also included will be talks on strategies for cell harvesting, and protein purification.

Introduction to PCR Workshop: This is an introductory-level workshop. It is suitable for those with little experience in molecular biology although some knowledge is advisable. No experience with PCR is needed. Students will learn the process of amplification by learning theory and techniques for PCR. Following this course students will be able to perform PCR reaction in their own laboratories, troubleshoot experiments, design primers and determine reaction conditions. We will cover critical requirements for amplification, thermostable DNA polymerases, reverse transcriptase reactions, cloning of PCR products, primer design and mutagenic PCR. 

Introduction to Cell Culture: The 3-Day workshop provide a solid basis for the understanding of the growth of animal cells. Topics included: Introduction to cell and tissue culture, serum containing media and the use of serum. cell counting and viability determination, development of growth curves, growth of adherent and suspension cells, transfection technologies for recombinant protein expression in animal cells, cryopreservation and cryothawing of animal cells, cell cloning and primary cell culture. This workshop provide prerequisite training for the culture of numerous cell types including stem cells.

Recombinant Baclovirus Techniques: This 5-day workshop is great for those wanting to express recombinant protein in the baculovirus expression vector (BEV) system. We will cover the growth of insect cells, plaque assays, titering, amplification of recombinant virus and protein expression strategies. As usual this class is for those at all levels of expertise, although basic molecular biology and recombinant DNA experience is preferred. The class will contain both laboratory and lectures.

Fee: Call for pricing.  All classes are held in-house and can be customized.