Don Natvig, Biology Room 206E (277-5977)
Richard Cripps, Biology Room 247 (277-2822)
TA: Pam Keil

Tentative Schedule (by two-week intervals)

Weeks 1-2

-Introduction to standard laboratory practices and equipment
-Preparation of whole-cell DNA from Neurospora and Drosophila

Weeks 3-4

-Restriction endonuclease analysis of DNA/Agarose gel electrophoresis
-PCR

Weeks 5-6

-Purification of DNA fragments from agarose gels
-Cloning and subcloning

Weeks 7-8

-Cloning continued
-Transformation of E. coli

Weeks 9-10

-Preparation of plasmid DNA from E. coli
-DNA sequencing continued

Weeks 11-12

-DNA sequencing continued
-Computer methods

Weeks 13-14

-DNA labeling
-Southern blot hybridization

Weeks 15-16

-Oligonucleotide synthesis
-finish ongoing experiments
 
 

Grading: Grading will be based on enthusiasm, participation, take-home exams, and at least one in-class quiz testing your ability to draw the sugar-phosphate backbone of DNA. Your grade does not depend on the outcome of individual experiments, assuming you have made the effort to be prepared and conscientious.

Readings: There is no text for the class. We will be furnishing you with laboratory exercises and readings as they become relevant.

Notebook: You will need a notebook for experiments. We recommend a three-ring looseleaf notebook that permits you to integrate your own laboratory notes with handouts and lecture notes.