In November the IB 12 biology class as well as IB 13 biology students, accompanied by their teachers, Dr. Ahke and Dr. Dr. Premkumar, received a deep insight into a modern molecular biology lab at Max Delbrück Centre campus in Berlin Buch.
Nestled next to professional research labs, the Gläserne Labor offers various lab work shops on latest fields of research. Scientists or PhDs allow a realistic glimpse into their research topics. Our classes practiced new skills as they have been introduced to the long process of PCR analysis of their own cheek cells and also did genealogical tree analysis. A PCR analysis usually includes a gel electrophoresis analysis, however, nowadays capillary electrophoresis is the lab standard used e.g. to detect paternity, analyze blood samples from crime scenes or for medical and hygiene investigations. (A.Ahke)
Some testimonials from grade 12:
I thoroughly enjoyed our experience at Gläsernes Labor! Although I had some previous knowledge about DNA fingerprinting, I had never tried it myself and I did not know the process in detail. We were given proper in-depth explanations for every step which was super interesting, especially because of how DNA fingerprinting is used for so many different things like forensic investigations. Witnessing the entire process step-by-step first-hand was really fascinating. Seeing a PCR machine in use was definitely one of the highlights of the trip. We were able to use our own samples and it was very cool to see our own DNA fingerprints in the end! It was a tremendously productive and fun course, I loved it. Hasti, IB12
The visit was quite amazing I would say in my opinion especially after seeing all the resources that they use in the lab inorder to teach the students there.In my opinion, I would say that anyone who plans on studying medicine or any other biological profession should definitely try going there because the explanations were so clear and well understandable and what made the trip more fun is when they showed us how to use the machines such as the PCR, I would say the trip was a 10/10 :) Hassan, IB12
A very enjoyable experience. A better look into what it takes to have a career in biology, the practical was very fun and interesting although it did take quite a while. The equipment was also very fun to use and the professor‘s instructions were clear and concise. The end result was quite satisfying and the expositions given for the change were quite interesting. Overall a fun trip and quite interesting. 9.5/10 Batuhan, IB12