【2024 Christmas & Winter Vacation】 Virus Identification & Species Authentication Research Project 爱博物
【Project Introduction】
In late 2019, an unknown viral pneumonia began to spread silently. Initially, we knew nothing about the virus's origin, causative factors, or transmission vectors, forcing us to find treatments amidst speculation and fear. It was akin to fighting a life-or-death battle against an unknown enemy.
Researchers quickly used nucleic acid sequencing to identify the culprit behind this pneumonia: a novel coronavirus – Sars-Cov-2. Once this virus was identified, overcoming the pandemic became only a matter of time.
In the field of biology, there are many organisms like Sars-Cov-2 that we have not yet discovered or fully understand. Yet, such tiny, unknown viruses can pose immense threats. To grasp information about unknown organisms as quickly and accurately as possible, we inevitably rely on species authentication technologies, including nucleic acid sequencing.
The iBOWU · JSR Academy instructor team, considering the current pandemic situation, virus detection, and prevention efforts, has designed the "Virus Identification & Species Authentication Research Project" based on life sciences practice. It will explain in detail the most concerning issues: virus discovery, nucleic acid testing, vaccine development, and specific drug treatments.
▲ Molecular Biology Gene Extraction Experiment
This project will guide students to gain an in-depth understanding of cutting-edge life sciences knowledge, reflect on the profound impact of this pandemic on society, and master more comprehensive research project learning methods.
【Session Dates】December 23, 2024 - December 28, 2024
January 12, 2025 - January 17, 2025
【Recommended Grade Level】 Grades 6-8
【Planned Enrollment】 12-15 students
【Location】 China · Qingdao, National Marine Gene Bank
The National Marine Gene Bank is a comprehensive gene bank integrating marine biological resource collection and marine life digitization. It is currently the only such comprehensive national marine gene bank under construction globally. The software and hardware capabilities of its Synthesis and Editing Platform are at the most advanced international level.
▲ National Marine Gene Bank Experimental Platform
【Instructor Team】
The instructor team is a professional research team led by young scientists from the JSR Academic Committee. All instructors for this project are from the National Marine Gene Bank and the Qingdao BGI Research Institute. Their research fields cover synthetic biology, molecular biology, bioinformatics, and more.
Course Advisors:
Teacher Zhang: 13910908618 (WeChat ID same as phone number)
Teacher Zha: 13910312020 (WeChat ID same as phone number)
About iBOWU · JSR Academy
JSR Academy is the first junior science academy initiated by non-governmental forces in China. Launched by iBOWU, a well-known platform in China for providing scientific research and academic programs for youth, its aim is to offer high-quality scientific practice programs for Chinese teenagers.
iBOWU has received investment from BGI Group and the TAL Education Industry Fund. Leveraging strong scientific and capital backing, JSR Academy has gathered dozens of multidisciplinary frontline scientists globally, along with resources from joint laboratories at dozens of universities and research institutions across countries including China, the USA, Denmark, Norway, Singapore, and Australia. It is dedicated to providing students with high-end, advanced STEM academic programs and elite training plans, striving to cultivate the scientific spirit among Chinese youth and contribute to the reserve of scientific and technological talent for China and the world.
