ASPIRING scientists from The Sixth Form College visited the University of Wolverhampton last week to take part in a Molecular Biology master class.
First year students on he BTEC Applied Sciences course went on the trip to the newly build five-storey science centre – which boasts brand new chemistry, microbiology and research laboratories.
With touch screen tablets, flexible power and water supplies, the facilities make lectures interactive for students.
The students carried out a genetic engineering practical – in which they had to transform E-Coli and mix it with plasmid DNA.
They also had the opportunity to use the specialist equipment, such as the Gel Electrophoresis and Polymerase Chain Reaction kit.
Ajaz Haq, BTEC Science Coordinator, said: “This masterclass was a fantastic opportunity for our students because they get to see how science is taught at universities and how exciting and challenging these practicals are at degree level.
“Students can also use the data and results as evidence for one of the pass criteria in Unit 18 – Genetics and Genetic Engineering.
“We look forward to visiting them again for another very successful master class during the next academic year.”
