Virus Variant Detectives

At Argonne’s Environmental Sample Preparation and Sequencing Facility, scientists use computers and genetic sequencing to analyze DNA from wild places such as bacteria living on coral reefs, the guts of stink bugs, and even wastewater from our sewers.

Note: This Learning Lab is for students 7^th grade and up only.

Our gene-sequencing specialists work as part of a team analyzing wastewater collected from water treatment plants for the presence of COVID-19 outbreaks in communities. This involves sampling wastewater from sewers and analyzing it for the presence of variants of the COVID-19 virus. By monitoring wastewater, which contains genetic material from many people, researchers can identify hotspots and emerging variants of the virus before they are detected through clinical testing. This work can help public health officials make informed decisions about regional responses to the pandemic.

Overview

In this learning lab, students will learn the fundamentals of gel electrophoresis and genetic analysis, using real-world examples to explore how scientists detect and monitor virus mutations.

Highlights

For Students

Hands-on Biotechnology: Students will gain experience with gel electrophoresis, learning how to separate and analyze genetic material.
Critical Thinking: Through the analysis of COVID-19 RNA sequences, students will sharpen their ability to evaluate data and form scientific hypotheses.

For Teachers

Real-World Science Skills: Guide students through the same techniques used by scientists to study virus mutations, emphasizing the importance of inquiry-based learning.
Encouraging Problem-Solving: Help students develop their problem-solving skills as they hypothesize about which variants are present in their samples.

What the Students Will Be Doing

Student teams will represent scientists working at various locations in the fictional town of Dookieville. Each group will receive simulated wastewater samples and use gel electrophoresis to analyze the genetic material. Students will compare their results to known COVID-19 variants and determine whether their samples match existing strains or reveal new variants of concern. Throughout the lab, students will gain hands-on experience in biotechnology, learning critical lab skills like micropipetting, gel loading, and interpreting data from electrophoresis gels.

Getting the Most Out of Your Visit

Prepare for the experience by reading the detailed description of your Learning Lab.
Make sure you arrive with plenty of time for the full experience.
Set learning goals with the students for the visit.
Share a scientist’s career profile with the students.
Get involved by becoming an active part of the Learning Lab experience.
Look for opportunities to apply some of the methods you see at the Learning Lab to your classroom.