Easter Bush Science Outreach Centre

Read about Real-Life Research

Download a free selection of case studies written for secondary & college pupils that reveal the current research happening at The Roslin Institute and across the University of Edinburgh's Easter Bush Campus.  These interactive resources encourage critical thinking and give opportunities for you pupils to discuss and engage with real science.

 

How to Build a Bone!

Before we do any work in the lab, scientists have to make sure that the animals they're working with are the correct genotype. This case study explores what the phosphatase enzyme PHOSPHO1 has to do with bone mineralisation, and explains the process of genotyping. To see how PCR is carried out in the lab watch our PCR in Action video. 

 

Curriculum themes: biological systems, cells, health & disease, genetics, topical science

Age: >15 years

Scottish course links to: Higher Biology, Higher Human Biology, Advanced Higher Biology, HNC & HND applied sciences

Download How to Build a Bone 

Download How to Build a Bone Glossary

A story of Gel Electrophoresis

Professor Alan Archibald recounts how he invented his own gel electrophoreis system using potatoes! This story shows that being a research scientist is all about being creative and finding innovative ways to answer your scientific questions! To see how Roslin Institute researchers carry out gel electrophoresis today, watch our Gel Electrophoresis in Action video.

 

Curriculum themes: biological systems, lab techniques, topical science

Age: >15 years

Scottish course links to: Higher Biology, Higher Human Biology, Advanced Higher Biology, HNC & HND applied sciences

A story of Gel Electrophoresis