Photo Provided

The Greenwood Gene Center Gene Machine Mobile Science Lab visited Fort Dorchester High School on Jan. 24.

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Fort Dorchester High students  (clockwise) Tiffany Woods (back facing), Mandy Nichols, Kayla Derhovanesian, and Lillian Rivers worked in the Gene Machine Mobile Science lab learning Molecular genetics techniques. Students in the school’s International Baccalaureate Higher Level Biology class participated in hands-on laboratory activities in genetics and biotechnology.

In January, the Gene Machine Mobile Science Laboratory from the Greenwood Genetic Center visited Fort Dorchester High School in Dorchester District Two to provide hands-on laboratory activities and information about careers in the field of genetics and biotechnology for students. The International Baccalaureate Higher Level Biology class spent the day learning molecular genetics techniques such as using gel electrophoresis to determine if a patient has a gene mutation for cancer and microarray, another test to look for gene mutations.  Twenty-four students had the experience of working with highly technical equipment on the Gene Machine that schools cannot afford to have in school science labs.  

The Gene Machine Mobile Science Laboratory allows the technology and expertise of the Greenwood Genetic Center to come directly to the classroom. With the support of a grant from the National Human Genome Research Institute, GGC acquired the Gene Machine, a 41-foot custom coach equipped as a mobile science laboratory. The mobile laboratory allows students to engage in fun, entertaining and educational scenarios where they have the opportunity to learn about genetic traits and disorders, understand the lab techniques used in making a diagnosis as well as consider the ethical implications of testing. Teachers can select from multiple lab activities including basic lab skills and genetic modules. Each of the modules addresses State Science Standards.

The mobile science lab is available to visit high schools across South Carolina at no charge to the school.

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