BioBits: Low-cost education kits for molecular and synthetic biology

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Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University

Researchers at the Wyss Institute, MIT, and Northwestern University have collaborated to create “BioBits,” a low-cost, shelf-stable educational kit to teach synthetic and molecular biology in K-12 classrooms. The kit utilizes freeze-dried cell-free reactions that eliminate the need for growing living cells in order to perform biological experiments. Different modules in the kit teach students different concepts in synthetic and molecular biology by engaging their senses, such as sight, smell, and touch, without expensive lab equipment or specialized training. With BioBits, the researchers hope to inspire a new generation of young scientists in a fun and engaging way for less than $10 per student.

Credit: Wyss Institute at Harvard University

Learn more at: wyss.harvard.edu/biobits-new-biology-kits-for-a-new-generation-of-kids