The Long Island University will initiate a six-week, commuter, Young Scholars project in molecular biology for 10 students in grades 11-12. The Young Scholars Program at Long Island University (Techniques in Molecular Biology) is designed to expose students to the methodology used in molecular biology. The course emphasizes student participation in basic experiments, including isolation of chromosomal and plasmid DNA, DNA cloning, restriction enzyme digestion of DNA, etc. Laboratory experiments are supplemented with lectures about the methodology employed, data analysis, and selected topics in molecular biology (e.g., structure of macromolecules, gene regulation, etc.). The course also includes guest speakers on ethics, as well as off-site visits to other research institutions. Follow-up activities include monthly meetings and visits to participants' high schools.
