Genome British Columbia (Genome BC) will be in Cranbrook this week and next to facilitate several workshops on topics related to genetics and forensics to local students.

On December 5 and 6, several groups of students at Mt. Baker Secondary School will get a unique and rare experience inside the world of genomics and genetics. Genome BC’s Geneskool Education Program will be running in-class, activities that focus on an assortment of advanced scientific methodologies and techniques

The goal of the Geneskool activities is to introduce students to the study of genomics in a fun and interesting context. Beyond hands on experiments, the societal context and implications of various genomic technologies are discussed. As much as possible, these are student-driven discussions.

Students will also learn what a genome is: an organism’s complete set of DNA – basically a blueprint for an organism’s structure and function. They will also learn what genomics is: the science that aims to decipher and understand the entire genetic information of an organism (i.e. plants, animals, humans, viruses and microorganisms) encoded in DNA. The Genome BC Geneskool volunteers, scientist presenters from UBC’s Let’s Talk Science program, are often MSc and PhD candidates who share their motivation and passion for science with the students.

“Molecular biology is an integral part of our natural world,” said Sally Greenwood, Vice President, Communications and Societal Engagement at Genome BC. “The Genome BC Geneskool program offers students a chance to use advanced laboratory technology and techniques to see the tiny world that exists at the molecular level while learning, having fun and garnering a greater appreciation of the world around us.”

Genome British Columbia manages a cumulative portfolio of over $1B in more than 343 scientific research projects and technology platforms. It invests in genomics innovation to address critical challenges in key economic sectors such as health, forestry, fisheries and aquaculture, agrifood, energy, mining and environment.

In addition to scientific programming, Genome BC works to integrate genomics in to society by supporting responsible research and innovation, and is committed to fostering an understanding and appreciation of the life sciences among educators, students and the public.

Lead image from Genome British Columbia

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