Hybrid Learning from February 2nd – 27th, 2026
Exploring Bioscience Innovations: Gene Therapy with CRISPR-Cas9
Curious about how Colorado life sciences leaders are using gene editing to advance medical breakthroughs?
This NGSS-aligned professional development course invites middle and high school educators to explores the cutting-edge area of gene therapy by exploring the genome editing technology of CRISPR-Cas9. Through interactive LabXchange modules and weekly insights including experts from Colorado’s bioscience ecosystems, participants will not only dive deep into the technology but also examine real-world applications of CRISPR-Cas 9 and ethical considerations. Designed with the classroom in mind, this course explores the innovations in the bioscience field happening right now with emphasis on real world application of this technology. Educators will leave with a ready to implement curriculum plan that showcases the latest technology advancements in Colorado’s bioscience ecosystem.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
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- Assess the latest bioscience developments, including technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9 and genome editing, specifically recognizing Colorado’s applications.
- Collect profiles and interviews with local entrepreneurs driving advancements in life sciences.
- Analyze how cutting-edge technology and data support scientific discoveries.
- Design practical strategies for integrating these real-world examples into their curriculum, enhancing student engagement and understanding of NGSS-aligned bioscience concepts
- Utilize free ready-to-use virtual labs, interactive activities and content from the Harvard created, LabXChange platform
By participating, you’ll gain a rich understanding of how local bioscience advancements are transforming industries, and how these innovations impact everyday life. Engage directly with leading entrepreneurs in the field, explore real-world case studies, and learn how to integrate these dynamic topics into your teaching.
Week 1: Introduction to LabXchange and CRISPR Technology, Live Session February 2nd
Start this course with an overview of the LabXchange platform and an introduction to biotechnology CRISPR Cas-9 and its applications in gene editing. Learn how this technology is being used to transform the biotechnology industry and advance bioscience and identify ways to bring advanced topics into the science classroom.
Week 2: Deep dive into CRISPR Technology and how it is evolving, Live Session February 12th
Deep dive into CRISPR technology by exploring basic gene editing mechanisms, impact of intentional mutations, and more examples of CRISPR Cas9 in action. Close the week with exploring novel technology breakthroughs and brainstorming how these topics can be taught in the classroom.
Week 3: Design and Testing of Guide RNAs for CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing
This week we will learn about the mechanisms of CRISPR-Cas9 in more detail. This pathway introduces specific mechanisms used in the design of guide RNAs to disrupt a macrophage gene with the gene editing tool CRISPR-Cas9. This week closes with a simulated DNA cleavage assay to test how well the designed gRNAs work and biotechnology practices in action.
Week 4: From technology to treatment: exploring gene therapy, Live Session February 26th
This final week brings together course themes through lesson design and peer sharing. Focus on applications of CRISPR Cas9 in gene therapy and an extension conversation on the ethics surrounding the applications of such a power technology. Build lesson plans using LabXchange simulations and videos. Discuss cross-disciplinary applications and strategies for classroom integration.
Session Information:
This is a hybrid course and participation is essential. While there is flexibility with when you can access materials and complete course work, participants are asked to complete the course at pace of one module per week. Participation in the February 2nd and 26th live sessions is required; the February 12th live session is optional.
Program Information
Dates: February 2, 2026 through February 27, 2026
Mandatory Sessions: 4:30 – 5:30 pm February 2 and 4:30 – 6:30 pm February 26th
Office Hours: 4:30 – 5:30 pm February 12th
Tuition: $185 for 1.5 Credit Hours. The first 16 teachers to register can receive a scholarship full funding their course enrollment.
1.5 Professional Development Graduate Credits through Adams State University
Register Today and take the next step toward bringing the future of science into your classroom!
Thanks to the generous support of the Amgen Foundation, the Institute is able to provide access to STEM education and support Colorado educators in preparing the next generation of innovators.