OLC Workshop Recap

On October 24-25, 2024, the “Metagenomics and Molecular Biology Techniques” workshop took place at Oglala Lakota College. This comprehensive two-day workshop provided participants with hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge of fundamental and advanced techniques in metagenomics and molecular biology.

Through practical sessions, discussions, and troubleshooting exercises, participants learned to isolate, amplify, analyze, and interpret DNA from environmental samples using state-of-the-art tools and methodologies.

Objectives learned at the end of this workshop included:

• Understanding the principles and protocols for metagenomic DNA isolation from environmental samples.
• Gaining proficiency in measuring DNA concentration and purity using Nanodrop.
• Mastering the basics of PCR, including setting up and optimizing 16S rRNA gene amplification.
• Learning to prepare, load, and run DNA gels for electrophoresis.
• Acquiring skills in cutting and purifying DNA bands from agarose gels.
• Analyzing DNA sequences using FinchTV and NCBI BLAST.
• Being introduced to RAST for microbial genome annotation and perform hands-on analysis.
• Developed troubleshooting and optimization skills for molecular biology experiments.

Thanks to the staff and attendees of this workshop with making this an engaging and educational experience!