Cell and Molecular Biology Experiences

SPARQ-ed Cell and Molecular Biology Experiences are a selection of 1-or-2 day programs aimed at providing classes of junior or senior secondary students an opportunity to explore concepts and use techniques not normally covered in a school laboratory. Each one covers a small aspect of cell and molecular biology, using routine procedures to demonstrate subjects which form the core of modern biomedical research. The subject matter covered aligns with key content in the Australian Curriculum for any given year level and may be tailored to suit the needs of individual school programs.

The programs are conducted in the SPARQ-ed teaching laboratory, a PC2 rated facility located on the ground ground floor of the Translational Research Institute in Woolloongabba, Brisbane. Each one is developed and supervised by the SPARQ-ed coordinator in conjunction with researchers from the University of Queensland’s Diamantina Institute.

Prior to the program commencing, teachers and students should familiarise themselves with the support materials provided on the SPARQed website, including manuals and risk assessments.

How to apply

Following registration, SPARQ-ed will contact registrants with confirmation of date of booking and program details, and to provide a link to the payment website.

Please note: If you are having trouble accessing the above link, please contact the SPARQ-ed team at sparqed@uq.edu.au.

Fees: Government school students ICSEA rating ≤950 $50, Government school students ICSEA rating >950 $350, Non-Government school students $450, Qld. Academy partner schools $300

Important notes

Please note the following points :

Schools using buses are encouraged to drop students off at the bus stop on Cornwall Street (near Gate 2 on the PA Hospital Map). Alternatively, the TRI is on a public transport hub, with City Express bus stops on Ipswich Road, a dedicated stop on the Southeastern Busway and is quite close to Dutton Park railway station.
The TRI has a cafe, however the time allocated for breaks do not permit a class of 25 students all buying their lunch. We encourage schools to have students make their own arrangements for food. Drinking fountains and toilet facilities are provided.
OH&S requirements state that all people in PC2 laboratories wear flat, closed in shoes which do not expose the toes, heels or tops of the feet. Long hair must be tied back. We cannot permit entry to people who do not follow these requirements. Personal protective equipment (laboratory gowns, gloves and safety glasses) will be provided by SPARQ-ed.