Schools sessions

DNA and the Genome: A Question of Taste

About DNA and the Genome: A Question of Taste

Working with scientists from the University of Edinburgh, students will explore their own DNA in this hands-on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) masterclass.

What will my pupils do?

The session takes place in our Learning Centre, where pupils will: 

  • Participate in a full-day PCR workshop
  • Use their own DNA to discover and compare bitter taste receptor gene
  • Determine genotype and phenotype related to bitter taste perception
  • Utilise cutting-edge equipment for DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis
  • Perform restriction enzyme digestion 

The session will also include time for viewing relevant parts of the Museum's science galleries. 

Please note these sessions are available exclusively to local authority schools in Scotland.

This has given pupils an opportunity they would not have had otherwise, as we do not have the equipment or expertise at school. Staff were knowledgeable and made everything interesting.

S5 teacher, Stirling

Curriculum links

Higher Biology: DNA and the Genome 

Structure and replication of DNA 

Gene expression 

Genes and proteins in health and disease 

Human genomics 

 

Advanced Higher Biology: Cells and Proteins 

Laboratory techniques for biologists 

Proteins 

Communication and signalling 

 

Advanced Higher Biology: Investigative Biology 

Scientific principles and process 

Experimentation 

Critical evaluation of biological research 

Sustainable development goals

3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 17

Meta skills framework

Self-management:Focusing, Adapting, Initiative

Social intelligence:Communicating, Collaborating

Innovation: Curiosity, Sense-making, Critical thinking 

Available dates

November 2027

Tue 3 Nov 2027 - 10:15

Wed 4 Nov 2027 - 10:15

Wed 11 Nov 2027 - 10:15

Thu 12 Nov 2027 - 10:15

Tue 17 Nov 2027 - 10:15

Wed 18 Nov 2027 - 10:15

Wed 25 Nov 2027 - 10:15

Thu 26 Nov 2027 - 10:15

How to book

Teachers should download and complete the booking request form and send it to schools@nms.ac.uk.

Booking Terms and Conditions

Payment process
  • Scottish State schools should raise a Purchase Order through their Local Authority procurement system for the cost of charged sessions.  Purchase Order numbers should be notified to schools@nms.ac.uk at least 7 days in advance of the visit. 
  • Independent Schools will be invoiced after the visit.  Payment terms are 15 days from date of invoice. 
Cancellation Policy
  • National Museums Scotland reserve the right to charge a fee for short notice cancellations or no-shows.  
  • Bookings cancelled less than 3 weeks prior to the visit will incur an administration fee of 50% of the value of chargeable events.  
  • Bookings cancelled less than 2 weeks prior to the visit will incur an administration fee of 100% of the value of chargeable events.  
  • A charge of 100% of the value of booked sessions will apply to no-show or last-minute cancellations. 
  • In certain circumstances National Museums Scotland may waive the administration fee. 
  • Cancellations should be notified in writing to schools@nms.ac.uk.

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