Introduction to Molecular Biology

In recent years there has been a tremendous increase in our understanding of the functioning of the cell at the molecular level. This has been achieved in the main by the invention and development of new methodology, particularly in that area generally referred to as genetic engineering.

While this revolution has been taking place in the field of nucleic acids research, the protein chemist has at the same time developed fresh methodology to keep pace with the requirements of present day molecular biology.

The Modern Molecular Biologist

Today’s molecular biologist can no longer be content with being an expert in one particular area alone. He/she needs to be equally competent in the laboratory at handling DNA, RNA, and proteins, moving from one area to another as required by the problem he/she is trying to solve.

Challenges in Learning New Techniques

Although many of the new techniques in molecular biology are relatively easy to master, it is often difficult for a researcher to obtain all the relevant information necessary for setting up and successfully applying a new technique. Information is of course available in the research literature, but this often lacks the depth of description that the new user requires.

This requirement for in-depth practical details has become apparent by the considerable demand for places on our Molecular Biology Workshops held at Hatfield each summer.