undergrads3

I am hoping that she will catch on to genomic DNA preps and PCR rather quickly. Because I have an upcoming project that is going to require an extreme amount of both of these techniques. After she feels comfortable with genotyping plants, we will move on to more advanced tasks such as protein analysis, gene expression analysis, and eventually molecular cloning.  I have witnessed and been told that it takes a year or more for an individual to become competent in a molecular biology lab – that is, they do not need someone to be watching their every move, they can undertake real responsibilities pertaining to the research being performed in the lab, and most importantly, obtain the ability to think independently at the level required to work in a cutting-edge molecular biology lab. I have high hopes for this undergrad, as she attended one of the most prestigious science high schools in Oklahoma. All of my explanations seem to be sinking in with ease, however, I shouldn’t speak so soon – we will see how this PCR looks…