Intro to cell biology is an entry level course that explores the fascinating science of cell biology from a real-world perspective.

Participants learn essential biology concepts studying the structure, function, and properties of mammalian (breast cancer) cells.

The program offers relevant learning experiences for all students regardless of their science background because it involves hands-on activities and real-world knowledge that cannot be learned in schools or non-lab based extracurricular programs.

Intro to Cell Biology is taught in a biotech research laboratory by professional scientists who are also exceptional mentors.

Each day focuses on a different topic:
Day 1: Molecular Composition of Cells, Essential Cell Biology Lab Skills (Pipetting, Bioassays, and Microscopy)

Day 2: Cellular Structure (Membranes, Cytoplasm, Cytoskeleton, Nucleus, ER/Golgi, Mitochondria, Vesicles)

Day 3: Organization in Multicellular Structures, Origin of Cells from Stem Cells

Day 4: Shared Properties (Physiology, Attachment, Migration, Apoptosis, Division, Communication, and Differentiation)

Day 5: Cellular Diseases, Applied Cell Biology (Research, Disease Modeling and Biotechnology)

The program provides:
– Theoretical discussions that build science literacy and provide a conceptual overview of the hands-on lab classes.

– Advanced practical skills and real-life techniques for isolating, culturing, and researching human cells.

– An inspiring real-world perspective of cell biology and its application in medicine, research, and biotechnology.

– Preparation for diverse learning environments through a multidisciplinary curriculum that combines science with art and math.

– Exposure to biotechnology and real-world science.

– Applicable skills and knowledge for future STEM programs such as high school biology and science fair research.

– An opportunity to connect with other science enthusiasts.

– A certificate of completion.

– Early exposure to STEM careers.

Intro to Cell Biology provides a practical real-world introduction to the following skills and concepts:

Day 1: Molecular Composition of Cells, Essential Cell Biology Lab Skills (Pipetting, Bioassays and Microscopy)

Participants learn to visualize cells using professional phase contrast microscopes. They study the major biomolecules that comprise living cells (lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids) and how these molecules are studied using fluorescent and colorimetric bioassays.

Day 2: Cellular Structure (Membranes, Cytoplasm, Cytoskeleton, Nucleus, Mitochondria, ER/Golgi, Vesicles)

Participants explore the internal structure of cells through fluorescent assays and experiments that demonstrate their location and function.

Day 3: Cellular Organization in Multicellular Structures, Origin of Cells from Stem Cells

Participants learn about the different types of somatic cells that make up our bodies – how they develop from stem cells then combine to form tissues and organs. Day 3 involves a mouse dissection and cell isolation from an organ of the student’s choice.

Day 4: Shared Properties (Physiology, Attachment, Migration, Apoptosis, Division, Communication, and Differentiation)

Participants learn how cells attach, move, die, divide, communicate and develop through hands-on experiments and BioArt projects.

Day 5: Cellular Diseases, Applied Cell Biology (Research, Disease Modeling and Biotechnology)

Participants learn how cellular diseases arise and how they can be studied and treated through the application of cells in science, research, medicine, and biotechnology.

– Inspiring multidisciplinary curriculum
– Fun practical activities
– Inquiry led experiments
– Engaging teaching
– Essential real-world lab skills*
– Foundational biology concepts
– Exciting science discussions
– Professional science mentors
– Authentic real-world science
– Biotech exposure
– Career education
– Team work, collaboration, and social skills
– Fun and friendships with other science enthusiasts

*Intro to cell biology provides practical training in: BSL-1 lab safety, microscopy (phase contrast and fluorescent), pipetting, centrifuging, slide preparation, bioassays, experimentation, cell culture, aseptic technique, tissue dissection, cell derivation, antibody labeling and staining cells with dyes.