1. Columbia students attend Clemson genetic lab to solve a “crime.”
This March, a group of IB students from Richland NE High School learned
the basics of DNA research by solving a “Who Done It?” crime case in the
Clemson University Life Sciences Outreach Center’s laboratories. The students
jumped at the challenge of isolating their own DNA, cutting that DNA, and solving
the crime of “Who Stole the Goldfish?” based on DNA analysis of four suspects
and DNA found at the crime scene.
Victoria Corbin, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Biological
Sciences, and director of CULSOC, and Heidi Jordan, PhD, teach these timely
subjects in an experiential, hands-on way that ensures the students have fun
while learning. “Most of the kids were able to figure out who the criminal was!
These students have a lot of enthusiasm and a ton of potential!” said Dr. Corbin
with passion. “The purpose of the Center is to show students that science can be
relevant and fun and that it’s not just for “brainiacs.”
The CULSOC labs also gave the Columbia students a taste of university
life, a first time experience for many students. Laura Hamilton, teacher and
chaperone of the trip to the Center, thoroughly enjoyed her time as well. “The lab
in which they participated was a very nice compliment to the Biotechnology
aspect of their curriculum,” said Hamilton. “The students were excited employ the
techniques of micropipetting and gel electrophoresis, and even more excited to
see their final products.”
Dr. Corbin spoke further about the students and their college experience,
“One of our goals is to inspire and empower students to consider becoming
scientists themselves. We show them that it can be fun, doable and financially
rewarding. We also talk about many career options that they might not have even
dreamed of!"
The Clemson University Life Sciences Outreach Center is a program of
the College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Life Sciences. The Center is open year-
round to school groups, clubs, and community groups of any and all ages. It also
offers graduate courses for teachers through the SC Life Project.