The ability to manipulate the genome of the laboratory mouse provides a powerful approach to understanding how individual genes function in the context of the normal animal.

Elizabeth Robertson (right) and a high school teacher discussing the lecture

In a wet lab following the seminar, teachers visualized the various stages of embryonic development at microscope stations that presented embryonic samples with detailed descriptions.

Quotes from Participants:

"I especially like that this series deals with current topics in biology. The standard professional development courses that are available don’t usually deal with the kinds of cutting-edge material we’re learning about here, so I’m just thrilled." – Nancy Rozak, Plymouth North High School

"It’s great that the series presents us with topics in biology that are on the cutting edge of scientific research. In my district it’s terribly difficult to find quality seminars that provide this level of information." – Gary Osowick, Taunton High School

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for teachers because we aren’t exposed to this level of research in our schools. It’s a wonderful opportunity for us and it will enrich what we bring back to our students because we’ve experienced this firsthand." – Suzanne Lijack, Belmont High School

"It’s great to be able to visualize things that we’ve only seen in textbooks. It gives us a new level of understanding as well as a better appreciation for developmental biology at this level." – Gene Kuczewski, Concord Carlisle High School

"Not only are the seminars and labs designed to present us with the most current research information, we’re also given handouts and other materials that supplement and reinforce what we’ve learned throughout the afternoon. Having this information to take home with us is tremendously beneficial." – Karen Haslam, Plymouth North High School