Ulster University recently hosted the Garfield-Weston funded Ulster Gene Editing Academy (UGenie), from 5 - 9 August at the Coleraine campus.
This innovative, week-long programme is designed for pupils entering Year 14 and is particularly beneficial for those studying A Level Biology or Life and Health Sciences, or Level 3 Cambridge Technicals in Applied Science. It will also benefit those entering second year of an Applied Science BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma.
UGenie offers a unique opportunity for students to delve into the world of molecular biology and genetic engineering through hands-on laboratory experience. The curriculum is tailored to complement aspects of the A Level and BTEC syllabus, making it an ideal supplement to their studies.
Under the course instructors, Dr Andrew McDowell, Dr Sarah Atkinson and Dr Rachelle Irwin, throughout the week, the 32 participants were able to learn essential laboratory skills, including microbiology techniques, micropipetting, DNA extraction, PCR, and agarose electrophoresis, all through specially designed gene-editing experiments.
They were given the opportunity to learn how cutting-edge genome editing technologies are being used to produce pharmaceutical drugs and biofuels, correct disease-causing DNA in patients, and combat the deleterious effects of plastic waste, pollution and climate change on natural and agricultural settings. As beginner genetic engineers, they spent the week developing key laboratory skills in CRISPR gene editing using their own portable ‘all-in-one’ molecular biology workstation, an immersive experience that would provide further insight into genetics and biotechnology.
Participants not only had the opportunity to engage in practical lab sessions, but they also got a taste of university life at the Coleraine campus. They were able to interact with Ulster University staff, PhD researchers, and current undergraduate students, who served as mentors throughout the week. This interaction provided valuable insights into university studies and research, as well as guidance on future academic and career paths.
To ensure that all interested students could attend, Ulster University was able to cover travel and lunch expenses for the entire week. Travel reimbursement was also provided through YLINK smart cards, made possible from the Garfield Weston funding.
Following successful completion of all aspects of the course, all pupils graduated with a certificate of attendance.
Testimonials from Participants:
"I enjoyed, getting to work with CRISPR and getting to practice gene editing, it gave me the opportunity to learn more about biology and the experimental aspect of biology, as in school we don't focus on experiments as much. I enjoyed the breaks as they gave me plenty of time to refresh and socialise with other people. The lab work, it was very easy to speak to the staff about anything we didn't understand or do correctly."
"I loved the program overall; it helped my practical skills as well as expanded my knowledge in an area that I was interested in but was quite unfamiliar with… the academy also helped me to make new friends and find people who were similar minded to myself which made me feel really comfortable and open to learn and explore!"
"Thank you very much, for taking time to give us this amazing experience, I am glad to be part of the first group of students doing UGenie and I hope in the future I'll get to see more groups enjoy this programme just as I did."
Dr Andrew McDowell, Senior Lecturer in Molecular Microbiology in the School of Biomedical Sciences, said:
“We were delighted to welcome the next generation of genetic engineers to Ulster University for a week of discovery, learning, and inspiration.
“Developments in ground-breaking gene editing technology have the potential to help address some of society’s greatest issues in relation to healthcare and environmental sustainability and during this Academy, participants were able to deepen their understanding of molecular biology and genetics and ignite their passion for scientific discovery through innovative CRISPR gene-editing experiments. The programme also gave them a glimpse into university life, to help them make informed decisions about their future higher education journey."
Darryl McCullagh, Education Outreach Officer, said:
“The University is committed to fostering educational opportunities and inspiring future leaders in STEM subjects, and through a range of programmes, such as UGenie, which gives pupils a greater insight into the field of biomedical sciences, we are able to offer enriching experiences to school pupils across Northern Ireland.
“We hope we have inspired many school pupils to come and study with us, and we look forward to seeing the remarkable outcomes of this innovative programme.”