How are gene therapies for sickle cell anemia designed? How do current researchers create the cell lines they need? Currently, it's by using the CRISPR-Cas9 system to edit the genome! In this class, we'll learn how to use computational tools to design effective edits on certain parts of the (mouse) genome. Students will be able to use some of these tools themselves, either on their own laptops or ones provided. Broad questions related to the applications of gene editing in both current research and medicine will also be discussed as a seminar-style group.

Oftentimes, we look back on our earliest years in a distorted manner -- from idealization to amnesia, there are a lot of gaps in our knowledge about children and how they contribute to culture more broadly. In this class, we'll analyze literature created by children and how their words subverted (or continue to subvert!) society's expectations for them. The last quarter of class will have student discussion of the (short) excerpts shown during lecture.

MYTH-BUSTING HIGH SCHOOL BIO!!! There are many aspects of biology left oversimplified and unexplored in the high school biology curriculum -- from triplex (and quadruplex) DNA helices to the enzymatic functions of RNA, show up to see all the sides of biology your high school bio teacher won't teach you about! Cool computational bio simulations! Discussion on (potentially revolutionary) biotech research! Students will have many opportunities to answer questions and discuss with their peers about concepts covered.