Impact/Purpose:

Region 9 program and Laboratory staff, and staff from State, local, and federal agencies and Tribes will learn basic concepts in molecular biology. Staff will learn: 1. how to perform an ORD/NERL EDC bioassay that may be used to monitor EDCs in surface water; 2. pros and cons of various microbial source tracking techniques; 3. how to use GMO field identification kits.

Description:

Region 9 RSL and ORD/NERL scientists developed a course for the RSC (Regional Science Council)-sponsored training class on Molecular Biology Concepts. The training will take place as part of the technology transfer of a fish EDC (endocrine disrupting chemical) bioassay to the Region 9 Lab. The two-day training took place on August 13 and 14, 2002 in Region 9's offices and Laboratory facility. The first day covered basic cell function and how various molecular biology-based techniques work. The second day, staff learn about several ORD tests that are currently available for field use. One additional day of laboratory training, August 15th, was available for staff interested in the bioassay. Three areas of Regional staff interest will be addressed -- 1. endocrine disruptors, 2. microbial source tracking, and 3. biotechnology. More than 60 persons registered for the class. A second offering of this training, targeted specifically to staff from States and Tribes, took place on February 4 through 6, 2003. This three-day class was attended by approximately 20 persons. The first day covered basic cell function and how various molecular-biology-based techniques work. The second day, staff participated in a demonstration of an ORD/NERL-developed exposure bioassay for estrogenic endocrine disruptors. The third day, staff participated in demonstrations of varying microbial source tracking techniques and a discussion with NRMRL scientists on the pros and cons of various techniques.

Record Details: