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. 

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 

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.
Free access for SIMD 1&2 schools

National Museums Scotland (NMS) Free Workshop Policy: Terms and Conditions 

Eligibility and Access Policy for Free Workshops 

As part of our commitment to inclusive education and community engagement, National Museums Scotland (NMS) is pleased to offer 20% of our educational workshops free of charge to schools located in areas designated as SIMD 1 and 2, based on the Scottish Government's Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD). The following terms and conditions apply: 

Eligibility Criteria 

  1. SIMD Designation: Schools must be located in areas classified as SIMD 1 or SIMD 2 to qualify for free workshops. 
  2. Verification: Eligibility will be verified using the latest SIMD data provided by the Scottish Government. Schools may be required to provide documentation or additional information to confirm their eligibility. 

Workshop Availability 

  1. Limited Slots: Free workshops are subject to availability, with 20% of our total workshop offerings reserved for eligible schools. 
  2. Exclusions: Please note that this offer only applies to workshops delivered by National Museums Scotland staff and excludes special events, study days and special exhibition visits.
  3. Advance Booking: Schools are encouraged to book early to secure a place, as free workshop slots are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. 
  4. Waiting List: In the event that all free workshop slots are filled, eligible schools can be placed on a waiting list and will be notified if a slot becomes available. 

Terms of Participation 

  1. No Transport Cost Support: NMS does not provide financial support for transport costs. Schools are responsible for arranging and funding their own transportation to and from the museum. 
  2. Cancellations: Schools must notify NMS at least two weeks in advance if they need to cancel a booking. Repeated cancellations without adequate notice may affect future eligibility for free workshops. 
  3. Feedback: Participating schools may be asked to provide feedback on the workshops to help us improve our educational offerings. Participation in feedback activities is appreciated but not mandatory. 
  4. Class cap: Workshop offer is limited to 4 classes from a school for each school session. 

Application Process 

  1. Application Form: Interested schools must complete the appropriate section in the booking request form. 
  2. Supporting Documents: Schools may need to submit supporting documents to verify their eligibility based on SIMD status. 
  3. Confirmation: Successful applicants will receive a confirmation email with details of their workshop booking. 

We are dedicated to making our educational resources accessible to all and look forward to welcoming eligible schools to National Museums Scotland. 

By participating in our workshops, schools agree to adhere to the above terms and conditions. NMS reserves the right to modify these terms and conditions at any time. 

July 2024