KS3/K4/KS5 DNA PCR workshop with a full day visit: 2026-2027

Take a practical deep dive into a session about animal forensics! In this workshop, students will extract DNA from preserved  specimens, formerly housed in the Manchester Museum Vivarium living amphibian collection, and carry out a PCR reaction in order to identify an amphibian. This session introduces students to Polymerase Chain Reaction, or PCR as it is commonly known, which is a technique used to amplify, or “photocopy”, sequences of DNA. This is the first step in nearly all genetic work before DNA can be visualized or sequenced. The session then walks students through a case scenario where students find a “mystery amphibian” specimen, which can only be identified through a DNA comparison, facilitated by the PCR technique, between previously identified amphibian and this unknown specimen. Students learn about valuable, universally used genetic techniques in the framework of zoology, ecology and environmental conservation, while learning about the genetic research carried out right here at the Manchester Museum Vivarium! 

This brand new workshop offers the unique opportunity to work with rare and endangered species of amphibians. As well as working in the state-of-the-art Lab facility, it features a visit to the Manchester Museum Vivarium itself where students will meet with the living versions of the rare preserved specimens featured in the laboratory portion of the workshop! 

Please note: Our vivarium will currently not be available until May 2026 due to a refurbishment. You will still be able to observe our animals through an interactive video of the vivarium