28 February 2007
Families invited to play with DNA
Scientists at the University of Sheffield are giving local people the chance to extract their own DNA and take part in a cross-generational discussion about the science and ethics behind genetic testing.
The `Let´s Play and Say with DNA´ activity sessions, which are being held from 1.00pm to 4.30pm on Saturday 10 March 2007 and Saturday 17 March 2007, are being organised for families, as part of National Science and Engineering Week.
The sessions, which are being run by the University´s Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, will give parents and young people a rare a chance to work together on a science project and extract their very own DNA. They will then be able to take it home in a small heart shaped pendant.
The fun practical experiment will be followed by a discussion on the science and
ethics of genetic testing. Small groups of parents and young people will
discuss questions such as: How genetics affects their lives today and what will it do for them in the future? What is a genetic test? And should a central database hold genetic information?
Each participant will be given an equal voice in the discussion and will be allowed to vote on policy issues at the end of the discussion. This will allow young people to feel empowered and see that their views are just as important as those of their parents.
Parents and young people will also be given the opportunity, during the sessions, to work with young scientists currently doing their PhD research in the Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology.
Dr Sandrine Soubes, from the Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at the University of Sheffield, who has organised the sessions, said: "The activity sessions are a great opportunity for families to work together on a science project and learn about DNA and how it connects them together.
"It is also a unique opportunity for parents and young people to find out how science can be fun and exciting and how it can affect their everyday lives and decisions."
Both activity sessions are open to the public, but young people who wish to attend must be aged 14 or over. Those interested in attending either of the sessions should book their tickets in advance from Dr Sandrine Soubes by telephoning 0114 2224220 or e-mailing s.soubes@sheffield.ac.uk
Notes for Editors: National Science and Engineering Week takes place between Friday 9 March 2007 and Sunday 18 March 2007.
Coordinated by the British Association for the Advancement of Science since 1994, National Science and Engineering Week aims to celebrate science and its importance to everyday life, providing an opportunity for people of all ages across the UK to take part in science, engineering and technology activities.
For all the latest information about the activities taking place at the University of Sheffield during National Science and Engineering Week visit www.sheffield.ac.uk/scienceweek
For further information please contact: Jenny Wilson, Media Relations Officer on 0114 2225339 or email j.c.wilson@sheffield.ac.uk
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