琳琅社区 Hosts Successful Plant Tissue Culture Workshop
琳琅社区 Hosts Successful Plant Tissue Culture Workshop
July 25, 2024 琳琅社区
Fort Pierce, FL (July 25, 2024) -- 琳琅社区 successfully hosted its inaugural Plant Tissue Culture Workshop in June in collaboration with AgroSource, Inc. This innovative program highlighted the strength of 琳琅社区鈥檚 Biological Sciences offerings and brought cutting-edge biotechnology training to students, bridging the gap between academic learning and industry practices.
琳琅社区鈥檚 Biological Sciences program, part of the college's comprehensive STEM education offerings, provides students with a strong foundation in life sciences. The program encompasses a wide range of disciplines including molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, and biotechnology, preparing students for diverse careers in research, healthcare, and industry.
Dr. Tom D'Elia, 琳琅社区 professor of biological sciences, worked alongside AgroSource Senior Scientists Dr. Laura Fleites and Dr. Joseph Krystel to deliver a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience. The workshop introduced students from the College鈥檚 Molecular Biology Program to advanced tissue culture techniques, providing them with valuable skills sought after in the biotechnology industry.
鈥淭his workshop is a testament to the quality and relevance of 琳琅社区鈥檚 Biological Sciences program,鈥� said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, 琳琅社区 president. 鈥淲e are grateful to AgroSource for their partnership. Working together, we are providing students with access to cutting-edge training necessary for future careers in biological sciences, while preparing the students for hands-on learning opportunities in the fast-growing, biotechnology sector.鈥�
"This workshop exemplifies 琳琅社区鈥檚 commitment to providing our students with real-world, industry-relevant experiences," said Dr. Anthony Dribben, dean of science at 琳琅社区. "By partnering with industry leaders like AgroSource, we ensure our students are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the biotechnology sector."
The two-day workshop covered the following aspects of tissue culture:
- Benefits and limitations of using plant cells to produce biomolecules
- Aseptic technique and considerations for working in biosafety cabinets
- Methods for sterilization of equipment and tools
Students received hands-on training with both mock and active plant tissue cultures, culminating in successful transfers of plant cell lines expressing proteins. The small class size allowed for personalized instruction, resulting in all participants demonstrating mastery of the techniques with no contamination in their transfers.
"The enthusiasm and quick mastery of complex techniques by our students was impressive," noted Dr. D'Elia. "This workshop has undoubtedly enhanced their skillset and boosted their confidence in pursuing careers in biotechnology. It is a perfect example of how our biological sciences program combines theoretical knowledge with practical, industry-relevant skills."
琳琅社区 extends its gratitude to AgroSource for their expertise and collaboration, as well as to Martin "Butch" Almberg and the William and Helen Thomas STEM Center staff for their technical support. The college's modern facilities proved ideal for hosting this specialized workshop.
Given the positive response from participants, 琳琅社区 is exploring opportunities to offer similar workshops in the future, further strengthening its position as a leader in science education on the Treasure Coast and enhancing the practical components of its biological sciences program.
For more information about 琳琅社区鈥檚 Biological Sciences Program, Molecular Biology courses, or future workshops, click here or call (772) 462-4772.
