The Scientist Names CRISPR in a Box™ Among the Top 10 Innovations for 2024
Award-winning toolkit empowered over 1,000 high school students in the past year
ChristianaCare’s Gene Editing Institute’s CRISPR in a Box™ teaching toolkit has been named the #2 innovation on The Scientist’s Top 10 Innovations list for 2024. This cutting-edge toolkit has already empowered over 1,000 students this year, providing a hands-on experience with one of the most exciting technologies in modern science.
“Being recognized by The Scientist underscores the profound impact CRISPR in a Box™ is having on the next generation of scientists and how it is shaping the future of STEM education,” said Amanda Hewes, MS, education program manager at the Gene Editing Institute.
“This award celebrates the power of education to demystify CRISPR technology and inspire young minds to explore cutting-edge science. With this toolkit, students not only grasp the science behind gene editing but also develop practical lab skills, fostering both their curiosity and their capability to make a difference in the future of science and health care.”
CRISPR in a Box™ gives students the opportunity to perform a real CRISPR gene-editing experiment in just three hours. The flexible lesson plan allows teachers to integrate the experiment into their curriculum with ease. Along the way, students learn essential lab techniques such as:
- Centrifugation
- Bacterial transformation
- DNA isolation
- Data analysis of bacterial colonies
- Micropipetting skills.
Within 24 hours, students can see the results of their gene-editing experiment in non-infectious E. coli cells, bringing the science to life in a tangible and engaging way. By blending theory and practice, CRISPR in a Box™ bridges the gap between textbook learning and real-world lab experience.
To learn more about or to purchase CRISPR in a Box™, visit Carolina Biological’s website here.
CRISPR in a Box™ is the only educational product to make The Scientist’s prestigious list, which celebrates groundbreaking tools that advance scientific research. Since 2008, the list has spotlighted innovations that make the biggest impact on the field of life sciences. The inclusion of CRISPR in a Box™ underscores the growing importance of accessible, hands-on learning in inspiring the next generation of scientists.
“Science doesn’t always need complicated tools to make an impact,” said Eric Kmiec, Ph.D., executive director and chief scientific officer at the Gene Editing Institute. “Sometimes simplicity is key.
“This kit turns the complex process of gene editing into an understandable and empowering experience for high school students, helping them see themselves as future scientists from their very first experiment.”
In addition to its spot on The Scientist’s list, CRISPR in a Box™ was named a finalist in the Best of STEM 2023 Awards by the National Science Teaching Association, MCH Strategic Data and the National Association of Biology Teachers. These accolades emphasize the toolkit’s exceptional role in transforming STEM education.
To learn more about or to purchase CRISPR in a Box™, visit Carolina Biological’s website here.
