The Future Queens of STEMM Genetics program is a dynamic educational experience for 6th – 12th grade girls. Students will gain a broad understanding of genetics through hands-on laboratory work, expert speakers, and group projects. They will talk with local physicians and scientists about the latest research and clinical applications in genetics. This experiential learning opportunity exposes students to the ever-expanding world of genetics and genomics in human healthcare.
Program Details
Summer 2024 Program Details
Location
Athari BioSciences Inc.
45925 Horseshoe Drive
Suite 170
Sterling, VA 20166
Agenda
- Lab safety & project introduction, cDNA synthesis
- PCR, gel electrophoresis
- Molecular cloning: bacterial transformation & culture
- Miniprep and restriction digest
- Sanger sequencing
- Sequencing analysis
- Ancestral genetics. Research what is known about their specific mutation and its impact on the texture/ structure of their hair.
- Research presentations & ceremony
Goals
By the end of the program, students will be exposed to drawing a family pedigree, performing a DNA extraction from hair follicles, learning how the latest tools in bioinformatics are applied to clinical data, and hear firsthand how discoveries lead to improved health care. Students will gain a strong understanding of how genetics impacts personalized care now and in the future. Experiences will reach deeper than the pages of a textbook to understand clinical features and inheritance pattern and testing methods for inherited genetics. Most importantly, interaction with program volunteers and mentors in a number of career paths in the field of genetics, will enrich the student’s understanding of how people can get involved in this multifaceted discipline.
By the end of the program, students should understand the following:
- The important role genetics plays in human health.
- The significant impact genetics can have on people’s lives.
- The multitude of career options and job settings in the field of genetics.
- The clinical features, inheritance pattern and testing method for genetics.
- The various careers found in genetics (i.e., laboratory director, laboratory technician, research scientist, clinical molecular geneticist, genetic counselor and others).
- Information about various genetic laboratory techniques and technologies.
Participants
We are looking for students that have an interest in developing a foundational understanding of genetics and are enthusiastic about learning more about STEMM and meeting new people. The program has been designed to take place every other week over several months. No previous experience is required to participate, just the desire to learn more about STEMM.
I want to participate in the next program, add me to the waitlist!
Waitlist Instructions
We are currently not accepting new applicants to our program. However, please join our waitlist to receive updates on our next Future Queens of STEMM session.
Athari BioSciences Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, or veteran status in any phase of its employment process, admission or financial aid programs, or other aspects of its educational programs or activities.
Questions? Check out our FAQs page to learn more.
