Course Listing
Grade – 9th to 12th
Course Information
| Age | 15-18 |
| Format/ Schedule | Vacation / Winter |
| Location | Torrance, CA |
| 2025 Dates | Winter: Dec 27th, Dec 28th, Dec 29th, Dec 30th. |
| Duration | 4 x 3.5 Hour Sessions |
| Times | 10am – 1.30pm |
| Class size | 6 |
| Eligibility | Methods in Stem Cell Engineering is an introductory hands-on program, open to both residential and international students. It is suited to science enthusiasts with a basic understanding of cell and molecular biology. No prior laboratory experience is required to take this course. Applicants must have passed high-school Math, English and Biology or equivalent courses with a grade C or above. Students are required to arrange their own transportation to and from the program. |
| Admission | Eligible students are accepted on a first-come-first-served rolling basis up to 1 week before the course start date. Additional questions? Click here to learn more about our general admissions policy or call us at 310-483-3651. |
Course Details
| Description | Methods in Stem Cell Engineering is an introductory course aimed at students who are interested in molecular biology and genetic engineering. Participants learn to inhibit the expression of an oncogene in testicular cancer stem cells using a gene silencing technique called RNA Interference (RNAi). The program expands on high school biology courses and is taught entirely hands-on in a biotech research facility by professional scientists who are also exceptional mentors. The Program provides: – A bioinformatics computer lab and introduction to siRNA design software. – Practical experience culturing, electroporating and genetically engineering human cancer stem cells. – College-level lectures that provide a conceptual overview of the lab-classes. – An introduction to the real-world applications of RNAi gene silencing technologies. – Exposure to biotechnology and real-world science. – Applicable skills and knowledge for future STEM programs such as AP biology, science fair research, college lab classes and workplace internships. – An opportunity to connect with other science enthusiasts. – A certificate of completion. – A resource pack containing guidance and information relating to STEM careers. Students with a keen interest in molecular biology and genetic engineering can expand their knowledge and gain complementary skills during the Molecular Stem Cell Biology Program. |
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| Curriculum | Methods in Stem Cell Engineering covers the following topics: Session 1: Intro to cells, stem cells and RNAi gene silencing |
| Features | – College-level lectures *Methods in Stem Cell Engineering provides practical training in: BSL-2 lab safety procedures, aseptic technique, electroporation, RNAi mediated gene knockdown, antibody labeling and microscopy (phase contrast and fluorescent). |
Colette Lee –
Pathways to Stem Cell Science has been a very enjoyable learning experience. For the first time, I was able to become familiar with laboratory equipment and techniques that was not provided for me in school. On top of learning much more about RNAi and gene silencing, I realized that I genuinely enjoy working in the lab; this experienced has greatly contributed to my newfound interest in biomedical engineering.