Cell and Molecular Biology Lab
BIOL-40399
Learn Cell and Molecular Biology Techniques Online
This fully online Molecular Biology Laboratory course offers a rigorous introduction to essential molecular biology techniques through a modern, digital format. Designed for students with prior coursework in biology or biochemistry, the course simulates the hands-on lab experience through a combination of virtual labs, instructor-guided video demonstrations, interactive datasets, and at-home activities. Students will engage with the core experimental methods used in molecular biology—such as DNA/RNA purification, gel electrophoresis, PCR, and gene expression analysis through digital tools that model real laboratory workflows. This course emphasizes scientific reasoning, experimental design, and data interpretation, preparing students for advanced study or laboratory roles in academic, clinical, and industrial biotechnology environments.
Learning Outcomes
- Describe the purpose, principles, and applications of core molecular biology techniques (PCR, electrophoresis, DNA/RNA isolation, etc.)
- Analyze and interpret laboratory data from virtual and simulated experiments
- Design hypothesis-driven molecular biology experiments and troubleshoot potential errors
- Practice proper biosafety and scientific documentation using digital lab notebooks
- Communicate experimental results in professional scientific formats, including reports and presentations
- Strengthen scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills relevant to real-world molecular biology labs
Prerequisites
It is recommended that students have completed a college-level Cell and Molecular Biology lecture course or are taking it concurrently.
Format
This course is offered in an online asynchronous format. There are no set meeting times, however, students follow a weekly schedule and there will be deadlines to meet in terms of course requirements. This course cannot be completed at an accelerated rate.
Transferring for College Credit
Many courses at UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies may be eligible for college credit at UC San Diego or other institutions. Credit transfer is determined by the receiving institution. We recommend consulting with the registrar's office at your intended institution before enrolling to confirm how your courses will transfer.
Note On The Lab
REQUIRED LAB KIT
Ordering and Purchasing Information:
This course requires a hands on laboratory involving multi-day experiments that the student performs at home. Except for a few household items, all the materials are included in the lab kit. The cost of the materials are not included in the registration, students must purchase the kit separately from a partner vendor.
How To purchase Your Kit:
Cell and Molecular Biology Lab Kit
Please note, there can be delays in processing times so we recommend you order your kits at two to three weeks before the course begins to ensure that you have the kit by the start date
Course Information
Course sessions
Section ID:
Class type:
This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.
Textbooks:
No textbook required.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 2/2/2026
Schedule:
Instructor: Daun Everforest
Section ID:
Class type:
This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.
Textbooks:
No textbook required.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 4/27/2026