Nowgen Develops Darwin-inspired Practicals for The Wellcome Trust

Nowgen has recently developed molecular genetics experiments to inspire post-16 students about Darwin’s work and contemporary evolutionary research. 2009 marks 200 years since Darwin’s birth and 150 years since the publication of ‘On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection’. The Wellcome Trust plan to celebrate with ‘Darwin’s Children’, a project providing the opportunity for every 5-18 year old in full-time education to investigate evolution through practical science.

Nowgen were asked to partner Isinglass Consultancy, who were commissioned by Wellcome to deliver this work. The process involved performing feasibility studies for 7 proposed protocols with an aim to providing hands-on experience of practical molecular genetics, further understanding of evolution and inspiring scientific thinking as part of an ethically sound and enjoyable investigation. It is hoped that Darwin’s Children will create a significant legacy for both students and teachers over coming years.

The Wellcome Trust Darwin’s Children project will be rolled out across the UK in 2009.