PCR: a question of taste

Using their own DNA, students will discover and compare their version of a bitter taste receptor gene.

Who is it for: Key stage 4 and post-16

Duration: 5 hours (with 30 minute lunch)

Make an enquiry

School teenagers in white lab jackets using science equipment during PCR workshop at Newcastle's Life Science Centre.

Student using PCR equipment during workshop at Life Science Centre in Newcastle.

Students will explore how different genetic variants evolve in populations and consider a case of convergent evolution.

Using their own DNA students will discover and compare their version of a bitter taste receptor gene (their genotype) to their ability to taste the bitter compound (their phenotype).

In our specially equipped laboratory students will carry out modern molecular biology techniques including; DNA extraction, micropipetting, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), restriction enzyme digest, and gel electrophoresis.

Curriculum links

Key stage 4 and post-16

Biology

AS/A Level Biology and BTEC Applied Science
Biological molecules
DNA, genes and chromosomes
Genetics and evolution
Practical skills in biology

By the end of the workshops students will have discovered:

How we can use molecular biology techniques to identify genotypes.

Whether they are a taster or non-taster of PTC and their underlying genotype which causes this characteristic.

How we can use PCR to make copies of a specific piece of DNA.

How restriction enzymes are used to select the relevant sections of DNA for analysis.

How electrophoresis can be used to analyse DNA samples.

How to carry out key molecular biology techniques using specialist equipment including; micro-pipetting, DNA extraction, restriction enzyme digest, gel electrophoresis and PCR (Polymerase chain reaction).

School trip prices

Please note: our school workshop prices change slightly from 1 September 2025.

Teachers and adult helpers go FREE!

Workshop only

£250

(full class up to 24)

£125

(half class up to 12)

Inside our PCR workshop...

Two male students carrying our PCR test during a Key Stage 4 schools' workshop.

Genetic information for students on PCR Key Stage 4 Schools' Workshop.

Male student with glasses looking closely at equipment required to complete a PCR experiment in Life Science Centre schools' workshop.

Life Science Centre demonstrator in front of a school group completing a PCR workshop.

Two female students conducting hands-on PCR experiment in Life Science Centre workshop.

Male student uses pipette during PCR workshop in Life Science Centre education lab.

What other teachers say...

“This workshop is brilliant! The lady I dealt with (at booking) was incredibly helpful and clear with their instructions”

Durham School

“This is an excellent course and by far the best way of delivering this part of the specification.”

St Mary’s Catholic School