Of Molecules and Mechanisms

Pipette Olympics: An Engaging Exercise for Undergraduate Laboratory Training

Pipetting is an important technique used in almost every molecular neuroscience method including but not limited to, PCR, reverse transcription, immunohistochemistry, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and cell culture. The COVID-19 pandemic has robbed the undergraduate population of time to practice in person laboratory techniques. In response, we have devised a standardized, quick, and fun way to instruct students on the fundamentals of pipetting, serial dilutions, and basic statistical analysis. Here, we offer a standardized protocol for instructors to use to teach undergraduates valuable skills while providing friendly competition. We also offer an example of an undergraduate performing the steps of this protocol with example results and the results from three separate undergrads' first two attempts. This exercise provides laboratories with a method to reintroduce undergraduates to lab basics while standardizing the training thereby saving time lost to the pandemic.