The Inspire Discovery Centre
Anglia DNA was thrilled to be able to lead a hands-on demonstration about DNA at one of Norwich’s leading family attractions. The Inspire Discovery Centre is a different kind of museum, one where children and adults can explore science through fun hands-on activities.
The museum is currently showing an exhibit that gives visitors the opportunity to understand more about DNA; what it is, what it does and how it can be used. Anglia DNA were asked to attend for the day as local children and parents visited to celebrate the start of the summer break. Anglia DNA’s Managing Director, Dr Thomas Haizel, commented “It’s fantastic to have been able to help the museum in this way. It’s great for us to be able to help a local organisation like the Inspire Discovery Centre. We’ve thoroughly enjoyed spending a day helping the children and their parents understand more about DNA.”
Dr Steve Cummings, a molecular Geneticist at Anglia DNA, accompanied Dr Haizel to give a practical demonstration of extracting DNA from Kiwi fruit before the youngsters were given the opportunity to have a go themselves.
“It’s been great” commented Dr Cummings, “We’ve had youngsters coming through the doors all day able to help out with the experiment along with using some laboratory equipment and it’s worked really, really well. The experiment involves extracting DNA from a humble kiwi fruit using washing-up liquid, salt and methylated spirit, which leaves the DNA visible to the naked eye. ”
As well as giving youngsters the opportunity to be involved with a hands on experiment, Anglia DNA were pleased to provide some display material to help the young people and their parents understand more of what happens in a laboratory.
It is hoped that Anglia DNA will participate in further activity days for visitors at the centre later in the summer.