Genspace: Bringing Science to the People

With the increasing interest and push towards improving education in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields, Genspace is well-poised to bring biology to the public. Co-founded by Sackler alumna Dr. Ellen Jorgensen (Cell and Molecular Biology, 1987) in December 2010, Genspace is a Biosafety Level 1 facility located in Brooklyn, NY, and aims to promote science education and experience to members of the public. Additionally it is part of a greater “biohacker” movement, which combines biology with a hands-on, community approach. Genspace is a part of the DIYBio organization which was founded by Mac Cowell in 2008 to bring together people interested in amateur biotechnology. The idea of “Citizen Science” - that science can and should be open to anyone, from professionals in institutional laboratories and by amateur/non-professionals who just have an interest and passion for science - is the basis for Genspace and other DIYBio groups.

Genspace regularly offers classes on synthetic biology and biotechnology to give members the knowledge and the foundation to be able to design and pursue their own projects. These classes integrate conceptual theory with hands-on wet lab work, allowing students to become familiar with fundamental laboratory techniques such as DNA isolation, PCR amplification, and restriction enzyme digests.

What makes Genspace unique is that it allows members of the general public to pursue projects that ordinarily would be restricted to university or industry laboratories. For $100/month, anyone can purchase a membership and gain 24/7 access to Genspace’s facility and equipment. Members can start their own projects, or assist with an existing group project. An example of a recent project by a Genspace member is the DIY anaerobic glove box, designed and built by Nelson Ramon.^[1] The box creates an environment conducive to growing oxygen-sensitive bacteria, and will be used by Ramon and other Genspace members to pursue other research and experimentation projects^[2]. The best part? This DIY project costs a mere $350, which can save up to $9000 compared to purchasing a brand new box!

Genspace is always looking for volunteers to teach classes, help with outreach events, or mentor people. More information can be found on their website (genspace.org) or by contacting info@genspace.org.

^[1] 2013-04-15. “DIY Anaerobic Glove box” http://www.genspace.org/blog/2013/04/15/diy-anaerobic-glove-box/ Genspace. Retrieved 2013-05-24.

^[2] Ponckk (2013-01-31) “DIY Anaerobic chamber (aka glove box)” http://www.instructables.com/id/DIY-Anaerobic-Chamber-aka-glove-box/. Instructables. Retrieved 2013-05-24.