Biology Laboratory Techniques

Biology Laboratory Techniques

Hands on training

Biology is a hands on science, and biology students are usually required to spend some time in the laboratory.

The type of activities a student will perform vary depending on the exact field they are in. Plant geneticist, for example, sometimes spend time out in fields gathering plants, while molecular biologists may use complex equipment such as DNA sequencing machines. Even so, there are some basic techniques that all beginning lab students should understand.

Basic skills

Laboratory safety and understanding warning signs
Preparation of simple solutions
Sampling and preparation of samples
Dissection of plants and animals
How to clean glassware
Use of the dissecting scope
Use of the light microscope
Making accurate drawings of organisms
Using a Bunsen Burner

Advanced

Specialized work places will require other skills. Some skills suggested by subject.

Anatomy, Botany, and General Biology

Use of a microtome to make slides
staining techniques

Medical

Cell and tissue culture
Patient sample handling techniques
Making an accurate white blood cell count
Antibody testing methods such as ELISA
Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP)

.....This may also be appropriate under Microbiology

Microbiology

Use of micropipetter
Knowledge of Southern and related blotting techniques
Molecular cloning
Use of restriction enzymes
Use of PCR ( Polymerase Chain Reaction) machines
Replica plating
Growth of competent cells

Molecular Biology

Cell Fractionation
DNA Extraction
RNA Extraction
Agarose Gel Electrophoresis
Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis
Western Blot
Northern Blot
Southern Blot
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

Although books exist to teach these techniques, experienced lab workers have special tricks and techniques that they do not write down. That is why it is best to learn by studying with an experienced lab worker.

Sample template

Feel free to add a new entry using the sample template.