Our IB biology course embarked on a journey to Basels Novartis student lab on Friday, 22nd of September. It is a one-day programme that the company offers to students free of charge. We first visited an interactive space where we learned about human organs using advanced technology.

Before entering the lab, we were informed about all the safety precautions and the four experiments we were going to carry out. Our aim was to carry out PCR tests to see if we had bitter taste receptors. Stepping into the student lab, we were greeted with sophisticated scientific equipment and an air of anticipation. Wearing lab coats and goggles, we entered and began extracting our DNA to identify the presence of bitter taste receptors.

At the very end, we used an electrophoresis gel to analyse our DNA patterns, which was both exciting and educational. Witnessing the power of molecular biology first-hand not only deepened our understanding of genetics but also left us fascinated. This trip was a reminder of how powerful science is and how important a role it plays in evolution.