Inspiration for Personal Research Projects Through a Visit to the Student Lab

Together with their biology teacher, Malte Klimczak, a group of nine students from the Steinmühle’s plus-MINT program went on a field trip to the student laboratory at the Botanical Garden. The goal was to participate in the molecular biology course “Genetic Fingerprinting” to gain insight into molecular biology laboratory techniques.

 

DNA isolated and visualized

The genetic fingerprint should be created from each participant’s own genetic material. To do this, each participant first isolated DNA from cells in the oral mucosa. This DNA was amplified using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and visualized via gel electrophoresis.

“We try to give students insights into various fields of science through different field trips and workshops,” explained Malte Klimczak. “This allows them to develop ideas and methods for their own research projects.”

 

Modern content in an authentic setting

The student laboratory at the Botanical Garden has been in operation since 2010 and has 20 workstations. It is an extracurricular learning center affiliated with Philipps University of Marburg. The lab primarily offers courses on photosynthesis and molecular genetics for high school students in their advanced studies track. Over 600 students from Marburg and the surrounding area attend the courses at the student lab each year. This complements the science curriculum in schools with modern content in an authentic setting.

Malte Klimczak, a teacher at Steinmühlen, also used to work in the student lab and developed the internship program back then. Christian Deurer recently provided on-site support to the Steinmühlen group. He is a research assistant and teacher in the student lab.

(Heinm)