Exploring Molecular Biology: Pinewood Students Visit Anatolia University for Hands-On Lab Experience
On March 16, 2026, Anatolia American University had the pleasure of welcoming six AP Biology students from Pinewood American International School, accompanied by their teacher, Dr. Clare Squires, for an immersive hands-on laboratory session in molecular biology.
Led by Dr. Mary Kalamaki, Coordinator of the Biological Sciences Program, the visit offered students the opportunity to step beyond the traditional classroom and experience the practical side of biology in a university laboratory setting.
During the session, held in the Chemistry Lab, students were introduced to essential molecular biology techniques widely used in scientific research and real-world applications. They learned the fine art of micropipetting, explored how to cut DNA using restriction enzymes, and analyzed their samples through gel electrophoresis.
More than a technical exercise, the lab experience brought biological theory to life. By connecting concepts from the students’ AP Biology curriculum to practical laboratory work, Dr. Kalamaki demonstrated how these methods are applied in fields such as paternity testing and forensic DNA analysis, helping students better understand the relevance of what they study in class.
The visit reflects the value of hands-on learning in the sciences, giving students the chance to engage directly with the methods, tools, and thinking that shape modern biology. It also highlights the importance of building meaningful educational bridges between school and university environments, inspiring students through authentic academic experiences.
At Anatolia American University, opportunities like this one are part of a broader commitment to experiential learning; encouraging curiosity, strengthening scientific understanding, and bringing students closer to the realities of laboratory-based research.
