Biohacker Boot Camp

In-person 3 part class:

Saturday, February 7, from 2:00-6:00 PM EDT

Sunday, February 8, from 2:00-6:00 PM EDT

Saturday, February 14, from 2:00 - 6:00 PM EDT

Did you know that you can now get your whole genome sequenced for less than the cost of an iPhone? And that an organism with specific genes removed isn't considered a genetically modified organism (GMO)? Biotechnology touches many aspects of our lives and is changing with blinding speed. This introductory course covers the major characteristics of the molecular heart of the modern biology era: DNA. Learn the techniques that facilitated the biotechnology revolution, get hands-on experience, and find out where the future is going in our Biohacker Boot Camp.

Learn about the fundamental characteristics of DNA and how we can take advantage of these to cut and paste DNA, making lots of copies of specific DNA sequences, or assembling new DNA sequences into a new genetic program.

You will perform some of the foundational techniques of the biotech revolution, including DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction, gel electrophoresis, and bacterial transformation.

What you’ll do:

• Extract and purify your own DNA
• Perform PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) to copy genetic material
• Visualize DNA using gel electrophoresis
• Transform bacteria with green fluorescent protein (GFP) to create a glowing GMO
• Sequence a portion of your DNA and explore its connection to ancestry

This is the perfect course for anyone who wants to explore biotech, genetics, or lab science for the first time. Whether you’re a student, artist, DIY scientist, or curious lifelong learner, this is your chance to become a biohacker.

COVID-19 Safety Notice:

If you are feeling unwell, suspect that you have been exposed to COVID-19 or test positive, please do not attend and let us know ASAP ([email protected]). If you cancel after our 7-day policy, we cannot refund your ticket, but we can exchange and offer credits toward future classes. If you have signed up for Biohacker Boot Camp, we will automatically transfer your registration to the next month’s dates unless you tell us otherwise.

Devon Collins (he/him), Ph.D., is a neuroscientist and educator from the Midwest. He completed his B.A. in biology and psychology at Ball State University in Indiana, after which he continued his training at the University of Chicago. He received his Ph.D. in behavioral neuroscience at the Rockefeller University in New York, where he explored how common genetic variation affects the brain’s responses to drugs and stress. Currently, Devon is program manager of outreach and engagement initiatives at RockEDU Science Outreach at the Rockefeller University. Devon has taught science to learners of all ages and backgrounds in the New York area for several years in the lab, in informal science education events and programs, and in the NYC school system. He believes that science is for everyone, and that anyone can learn and appreciate science.

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