CHEMICAL BIOLOGY LAB

Credit Hours: 2 · Undergraduate Upper-Level

A hands-on, design-forward introduction to experimental chemical biology for students new to the field. Organized around two modern modules—(1) glucose sensing with DNA aptamers and (2) CRISPR/Cas12a-based viral nucleic-acid detection—the course builds core laboratory competencies and emphasizes experimental design: students formulate hypotheses, select assay parameters and justify controls to meet performance targets (specificity, sensitivity, dynamic range). Work proceeds through approximately 12 scaffolded experiments that incorporate guided choice points, iteration, and quantitative decision-making. Emphasis is placed on safety, reproducibility, and interpreting assay performance (specificity, sensitivity, dynamic range). Instruments include a microplate reader, PAGE system, DNA spin-purification columns, a NanoDrop, and micropipettes. Open to undergraduate students only. No prior experience in chemical biology is required; recommended background includes general chemistry with laboratory and organic chemistry laboratory (or permission of the instructor). Two credit hours.