Green Genes

Clone a gene and make a fluorescent protein

A group of students engaged in Gel Electrophoresis experiment, one student is using a micropipette to carefully inject a liquid sample (likely DNA) into small wells within an agarose gel.

Green Genes

Green Genes is a biotechnology summer camp for students entering grade 9, or World of Enzymes alumni entering grade 8. Campers take on the role of molecular biologists, using techniques employed by pharmaceutical companies to produce medicines like human insulin. The focus of the week is the Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) gene, naturally found in the Pacific jellyfish Aequorea victoria. Each day builds on the last—first students will introduce the gfp gene to bacteria, then extract and purify the glowing protein.

Students will:

  • Use restriction enzymes to "cut and paste" genes.
  • Engineer bacteria to produce a visible fluorescent protein.
  • Visualize results using gel electrophoresis.
  • Clone specific DNA fragments using PCR (polymerase chain reaction).
  • Isolate the GFP protein and watch it glow.
  • Paint with bacteria and create living agar art.

This camp is a great fit for:

Students who are ready for more of a lab challenge, anyone considering a career in biotechnology or medicine, and students who are curious about genetic research.

Details:

  • Grades: entering grade 9 or World of Enzymes alumni entering grade 8
  • $600 per student
  • Monday to Thursday 9:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Parent Participation Day Friday, 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. in CSH and 9:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m. in NYC, Sleepy Hollow, and NJ
  • June 29–July 3 week (at all locations except LI) is Monday–Thursday due to the Independence Day holiday. Parent Participation Day will be Thursday 2:30 p.m.–4:00 p.m. with no class Friday.
  • June 29–July 3 week on Long Island is Monday–Thursday 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., Parent Participation Day Thursday 1:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
  • Available at:
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