A Question of Taste: Using PCR to investigate human evolution

This one-day workshop explores the evolution of an unusual trait, where some people taste a particular chemical as being horribly bitter, while others can’t taste it. Why have we evolved these two responses? What evolutionary advantage could each have given us?

Students work with their own DNA to classify themselves into one of three common genotypes and then compare their DNA sequence with that of a chimpanzee, helping them understand convergent evolution between the two species.

The workshop is run by members of the Nowgen team and research students from
local universities. It is delivered in the state-of-the-art Nowgen Laboratory, on the
Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust site.

Fully compliant with the new A-level specifications
AQA 3.5.6, 3.5.8, 3.2.9, 3.2.10
OCR 2.3.3h, 5.2.3e-h
Edexcel 3.3:21, 3.4:5-7

Learning outcomes:
• Extraction of their own DNA
• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)
• Restriction digestion
• Gel electrophoresis
• Analysis of DNA bands

 

Cost: £300 per workshop for up to 25 students
Limited places available so please book early

For more information regarding this workshop or to make a booking, please contact the Nowgen Events Team:
Phone: +44 (0)161 276 5956
Email: bookings@nowgen.org.uk

For more information about the course please download the course flyer