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Norma Sanchez
 Norma Sanchez
is a molecular biologist whose interests lie in microbiology, biochemistry, genetics and cell biology. She finds pathogen-host interactions and biological systems fascinating at the molecular level. In her ten years as a research scientist, her work has focused on enzyme structure and function in the corn plant, host-pathogen interactions in typhoid fever and most recently, radiation and cell death as a therapy for cancer. After completing her master's degree at the University of Colorado at Boulder, Norma is now happy to give back to the community here in the Denver area by sharing her experiences and knowledge with your students.
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Special Presentations:
Inheritance and Genetics: The Differences Between Us
Have you ever wondered how it is possible to be related yet look so different from a sibling? The answer lies in our DNA, genetics, inheritance and the independent assortment of our family genes. We will begin this presentation by discussing DNA and our genes, which are responsible for our traits. Then your students will learn about basic chromosomal inheritance and/or the inheritance of a specific genetic disease by working with a colorful pasta model. This presentation can be tailored to your class's level; we can discuss DNA and inheritance in terms of physical traits or dive deeper into the world of more complex inheritance and discuss current scientific research using genetics. (Grades 5-12)
CSI - Your Classroom
Everything you ever wanted to know about DNA forensics and CSI work is explained in this hands-on laboratory experience! Your students will first learn how DNA is extracted from human cells, amplified through the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and how restriction enzymes are employed to create a unique pattern for accurate identification of an individual. After a brief introduction, your students will be given samples to analyze and determine which of several suspects really committed a "crime" in a simulated DNA fingerprinting analysis. Your students will use real CU-Boulder laboratory pipettes and gel electrophoresis equipment. (Grades 8-12)
Antibiotic Resistance
The media is often reporting cases of drug-resistant microbes, but exactly what does that mean? And why are pediatricians now reluctant to prescribe antibiotics for common childhood illnesses like ear infections and sore throats? By participating in a fun, competitive exercise we will learn exactly why bacteria share their genetic material and why antibiotic resistance is such a serious public health problem in our society. We will also discuss the differences between antiseptics and antibiotics in our homes and whether they are helping or hurting our environment. (Grades 6-12)
GMO's: Living in a Genetically Modified World
Humans have been genetically modifying organisms for hundreds of years through selective breeding and crossing. Recent and ongoing technological advances now allow scientists to make targeted modifications to specific genes to create desired phenotypic outcomes in an organism. We will begin by introducing the types of genetic modifications that exist today, including specific examples that are currently used commercially in plants, animals and bacteria. We will also discuss how genetic modification techniques are used to perform basic scientific research and to generate new commercial products. Using a genetic key and a hands-on DNA model, students will manipulate genes and predict the effects of genetic modification in a given organism. Lastly, we will look at both the positive and negative potential consequences of genetic modification. (Grades 9-12)
Norma recently completed her Master's Degree in Molecular, Cellular,
Developmental Biology at the University of Colorado at Boulder.
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