Bringing Science to the Community

Scientific curiosity starts with a spark! In the Krahn lab we are dedicated to providing students at all education levels the opportunity to experience that feeling and provide a platform for them to get involved in science, with a focus on synthetic biology!

Testing soil pH at East Jackson Elementary School

We took the Grade 3 soil unit up a notch with testing the pH of the soil in their backyard. Students made a hypothesis on what the pH would be and then tested it with pH strips. They soon realized it was too acidic to grow their favorite plant, so they added sodium bicarbonate to increase the pH of their soil. Some added too much and overshot the pH into the basic zone, while others got in the perfect neutral range. The vortex and mini-fuge were definitely highlights of the experience!

RNA Adventure Zone at Atlanta Science Festival

With thousands of people coming through the Atlanta Science Festival, we provided hands on opportunity for people to match base pairs in DNA and then translate that into a bracelet!

CRISPR editing at Empower College and Career Center

With the support from a Communication in Research grant from UGA, the Krahn lab went to middle schools and high schools to teach CRISPR gene editing technology. We found some great talent at the Empower Center in Jefferson, GA which initiated a high school internship program.