Biotechnology Magnet Program Biotechnology Biotechnology is one of the fastest growing industries in the scientific field. This cluster offers students an opportunity to explore a broad base of career options in biotechnology. Beginning with the 11th Grade course in Molecular Biology and continuing through the Junior Practicum students participate in hands-on experiences with many subjects, one being gene therapy.
Gene therapy is the use of genetic material for therapeutic applications.
Gene therapy techniques can replace a defective gene or add a new gene as a treatment agent the manipulation of cells for cancer treatment and genetic vaccination to elicit an immune response. The class also deals with the use of DNA.The students learn about DNA extraction, electrophoresis, protein prufications, DNA mapping, DNA amplification processes. The biotech students also learn about certain bacteria, doing experiments with the E. Coli. The students then prepare a project on a selected subject which can range from biological warfare to micropropagation. All this prepares students to select an area of specialization in the Biosciences for their Senior Practicum Project, which is done as an internship with the aid of a professional mentor.