Our two-day intensive qPCR and Genetic Analysis course provides participants with hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques, focusing on real-world applications using bacterial model organisms. This course also showcases several applications of genetics in the contexts ofbiomedical science, conservation biology, evolutionary biology, microbiology and more. This course is designed and delivered by real scientists to provide university science participants, graduates and postgraduates with an opportunity to gain hands on experience using real laboratory equipment.

This course is designed for participants and researchers looking to strengthen their laboratory skills in quantitative PCR, DNA quantification, electrophoresis, and genetic analysis. Participants work in small groups and receive comprehensive tuition from experienced scientists which covers the principles of PCR in contemporary genetics.

The qPCR and Genetic Analysis course runs from 9:30 am – 4:00 pm for two consecutive days, with an hour break for lunch. We maintain a low participant-to-tutor ratio (5:1) to ensure personalized instruction and hands-on experience.

The course content is ideal for undergraduate and postgraduate participants who wish to gain a solid foundation in laboratory skills and gain a better understanding of certain laboratory procedures within a genetics laboratory.

We ask participants to design their own experiments and allow participants to make (safe) mistakes to learn from them. This helps participants to develop independent research skills and gain confidence in their own ability in the laboratory.

Day 1 – qPCR and Molecular Biology Techniques

• Introduction to qPCR principles and applications.
• Preparation and setup of qPCR reactions using bacterial model organisms.
• DNA quantification using a Nanodrop Spectrophotometer.
• Gel electrophoresis setup, agarose gel preparation, and visualization of DNA fragments.
• Training on the iBright Imager for gel documentation and analysis.
• Troubleshooting qPCR reactions and interpreting amplification curves.

Day 2 – Advanced PCR Applications and Genetic analysis

• Hands-on experience with additional PCR techniques and optimization.
• Dry lab session on NCBI BLAST for sequence analysis and annotation.
• Introduction to primer design for qPCR and standard PCR applications.
• Analysis and interpretation of PCR and sequencing results.
• Discussion on experimental controls, troubleshooting, and best practices.

Participants attending this course are expected to have some level of previous laboratory experience, therefore, you may be asked to complete a questionnaire prior to the commencement of your course to ensure you are able to meet the required competencies.

If you do not yet possess the necessary laboratory skills, you must attend our 1 day Introduction to Laboratory Skills course before commencing this course.

By the end of this course, participants are able to:

• Demonstrate proficiency in qPCR setup, execution, and data interpretation.
• Effectively quantify and analyse DNA using a Nanodrop system.
• Prepare and run agarose gels to visualize PCR products.
• Utilize genetic analysis tools such as NCBI BLAST for genetic analysis.
• Design primers for PCR and qPCR applications.
• Understand best practices in molecular biology and troubleshooting techniques.

This course provides participants with valuable laboratory and genetic analysis skills essential for research and industry applications. Upon completion, participants will have a strong foundation in qPCR and genetic analysis, preparing them for further research opportunities and laboratory roles.

Attendees not only gain transferable laboratory skills but also valuable insights into the research opportunities and applications of these techniques.

All our courses provide attendees with valuable insights into a range of careers and laboratory research opportunities available. We have links with many companies that recruit interns and graduates based on our recommendations. On completion of the course, your new skills and laboratory techniques will be endorsed by our lecturers on LinkedIn and a factual reference will be provided upon request.