Sometimes humans seem to have all the summer fun. Not so at Camp DNA which caters to one of life’s most essential molecules! Our campers, a lively bunch of double-stranded nucleotide sequences, are ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, exploring the wonderful world of biotechnology. Our camp promises fun, self-discovery, and transformation. But don’t take our word for it. Read about some of the activities the DNA strands will get to experience this summer like electrophoresis, PCR, qPCR, CRISPR, sequencing, and transformation, and decide for yourself.
ELECTROPHORESIS EXTRAVAGANZA: Imagine DNA zooming through a gel matrix, racing against the electric current. Electrophoresis is like a thrilling obstacle course, where DNA fragments compete to reach the finish line. Along the way, campers will learn about their size and confirm their wonderful negative charge.
PCR PARK: At Camp DNA, loneliness is never an issue, especially after a visit to PCR Park, home of the Polymerase Chain Reaction. Campers cycle through our denaturation, annealing, and extension stations to amplify themselves. By day’s end, they (and their copies) will number around 1 million strong and may even be visible to the naked eye!
QPCR QUESTS: For our older, curious, and/or less abundant DNA campers, we offer the opportunity to embark on a quantitative polymerase chain reaction adventure. In this activity, they can build upon the skills they acquired at PCR Park but also begin to work with 5′ nuclease probes or intercalating dye. Though the process may be challenging at times, our campers have found that the reward of witnessing their own amplification in real-time is truly priceless. Additionally, they love to discover their initial numbers in a sample!
CRISPR CREATIONS: Camp is the perfect time for self-reinvention. At Camp DNA, we provide cutting-edge CRISPR technologies so that campers can accurately and easily modify their nucleotides with the reassurance that they’re using some of the most precise and accurate tools around. Guided by our dedicated and knowledgeable camp counselors, who are experts in both biotech techniques and bioethics, campers explore their endless possibilities with confidence and inspiration.
SEQUENCING SHOWS: A beloved tradition at Camp DNA is our Sequencing Shows, where campers come together to share more about themselves. Utilizing Sanger sequencing with chain terminator nucleotides and fluorescent labels, campers dive into the fascinating world of genetic profiling. We cherish the opportunity for campers to learn about their peers and also know that campers love using the four vibrant fluorescent colors, especially once the sun goes down.
TRANSFORMATION TREKS: Are you ready for an adventure of genetic proportions? DNA campers are invited to embark on an exhilarating journey into the realm of bacterial transformation! In this activity, campers travel into competent bacterial cells where they quickly integrate into the cell’s genetic makeup. As campers undergo this transformation, they witness themselves at a whole new level, experiencing firsthand how they can be translated into proteins that interact with other cellular components.
At Camp DNA, each activity not only promises excitement and discovery but also offers campers the chance to contribute to cutting-edge research. Whether you’re racing through gels or editing genes, remember: the ultimate biotech adventure awaits at Camp DNA, where every moment is an opportunity to explore, learn, and make a difference in the world of science!
**Note: We’re always on the lookout for camp counselors. If you have a passion for DNA and hands-on experience in pipetting, along with a background of 2+ years in biology, come join us in a lab near you! As a counselor, you’ll play a crucial role in guiding, enabling, and occasionally troubleshooting these exciting biotech activities. Your expertise will inspire our DNA campers as they explore the wonders of molecular biology and biotechnology, ensuring that every camper’s journey at Camp DNA is both unforgettable and impactful.
Interested in summer science activities for your human campers? Check out our Camp Edvotek series and our FREE summer science activity guide and coloring book complete with achievement badges.
Title image attribution: Pweid12, CC0
The Official Blog of Edvotek® 