Community exploration and learning lab (CELL)

Expeditions

Biomedical Expeditions are designed to include multiple visits to Novartis where students work side-by-side with Novartis scientists to answer a “big question.” This multiple-visit format builds confidence as well as skills. Each visit is approximately 2 hours in duration and is best suited for public schools and learning organizations in the greater Cambridge/Boston region.

Explorations

Biomedical Explorations are singular experiences designed to provide an opportunity for students in locations outside the greater Cambridge/Boston region to have an authentic experience alongside Novartis scientists. Explorations are approximately 4 hours in duration.

Encounters

Biomedical Encounters are short, singular visits designed to introduce students to basic laboratory skills and biomedical concepts. Encounters are generally 2 hours in duration and are often organized in partnership with after-school programs.

Basic Science & Lab Skills

What’s the Right Tool for the Job?
Students learn how to use pipette aids and micropipettes.  They will practice pipetting various volumes into different size containers and will learn how to determine the accuracy of a pipette using the weight of water and a balance.

“pHun” with Acids & Bases
Students will learn about acids and bases and the chemical reactions that take place.  They will use indicator solutions to determine the pH of common household products, and discover how pH is a property that scientists use in their experiments.

A Little Concentration Goes a Long Way
Students will learn about concentrated solutions, practice making different serial dilutions and use simple math skills to calculate the solution concentration at each step.  These skills will be applied to determining protein concentration using absorbance results and standards curves.

Genetics & Molecular Biology

What Do Genes have to do with Your Sense of Taste?
In this molecular expedition of the bitter taste receptor gene, students will use laboratory techniques and equipment to extract DNA from human cells, amplify a portion of the bitter taste receptor gene by PCR, and use gel electrophoresis to analyze DNA fragments.  Students will engage in discussions about genetic variation and the ethical use of genetic information.

Is Bitter Better?
In this biomedical exploration, students will use gel electrophoresis to analyze multiple DNA samples to determine the bitter taste receptor genotype of potential patients for a hypothetical clinical Proof of Concept trial.  Students will engage in discussions with Translational Medicine Experts about the considerations and planning required to test new medicines in patients.