AWARD YEAR: 2018

Laura Hudson Reichenberg Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Biology
Pfeiffer University
Harris Annex Rm. 200
48380 US HWY 52
Misenheimer, NC 28109
Phone:  336-302-0067

Project title:  Project GENES: Genetics Education for the Next Era of Science

PROJECT GENES: Genetics Education for the Next Era of Science is a partnership of Pfeiffer University, Independence High School (Mecklenburg County), Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology (Mecklenburg County), A.L. Brown (Cabarrus County) and Gray Stone Day School (Stanly County).  The program, PROJECT GENES, is offered by Pfeiffer faculty and high school science teachers through the delivery of DNA Technology Modules during after school and summer programs for 9th and 10th grade students. DNA Technology Modules conducted during the after school programs, on-site at each high school, engage students to learn by hands-on participation and investigation but are designed to focus on building collaboration skills and confidence in the field of DNA technology. The summer program, held on the Pfeiffer University campus, is a five-day residential program that allows for student focus on original experiment design and application of basic DNA knowledge. Other program components include a field trip to the North Carolina Research Campus, participation in a Saturday Symposium, engagement with STEM professionals, and use of PathBrite ePortfolios to record and track each student's individual activity and progress. All activities are aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards, the Common Core State Standards, and the North Carolina Essential Science Standards. Over a three-year project period, 360 students will be reached each receiving approximately 70 contact hours during the program year to increase their interest in and excitement about STEM, DNA technology, and a future career in DNA science.

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