Biotech at IA: Empowering Future Innovators Through Inquiry, Collaboration, and Real-World Science
December 17, 2025 2025-12-19 10:31Biotech at IA: Empowering Future Innovators Through Inquiry, Collaboration, and Real-World Science
Biotech at IA: Empowering Future Innovators Through Inquiry, Collaboration, and Real-World Science
Made by Anaiya Patel
Biotechnology is the use of living organisms, cells, or their components to develop new technologies and products. It merges biology with technology to solve problems and create useful items, such as new medicines, pest-resistant crops, and biofuels. Maanya Prabhu (10) states, “I chose the biotech pathway because I have always been interested in becoming a biomedical engineer. I also find the materials and research used in biotech to be very interesting overall.” Students in the Biotechnology pathway spend much of their time focused on scientific research and laboratory-based learning. The course emphasizes the study of a wide range of topics, including diseases, living organisms, and cellular processes. In the Essentials of Biotechnology class, students are introduced to advanced lab tools such as spectrophotometers and micropipettes, learning how to use them effectively in experiments. The curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation in lab techniques and scientific thinking, with regular lectures that support upcoming hands-on activities. By focusing on the processes that occur at the cellular level, students gain a deeper understanding of how biotechnology is applied in real-world research and medical advancements.
Students in the Biotechnology pathway participate in a variety of hands-on labs and research projects that help them apply scientific concepts in real-world scenarios. Maanya states, “Right now, we are focusing on the identification of specific genomic patterns using gel electrophoresis. Before, we were discovering the effects of alcohol on the cell membrane of a beetroot cell by observing light absorption in diluted samples of beetroot.” These experiments allow students to explore how biological systems function at the cellular level while gaining experience with lab techniques and data analysis. In addition to lab work, the course also emphasizes the connection between classroom learning and real-world careers in biotechnology. According to Maanya, “We recently completed an assignment on biotechnological careers that may be attainable in the future. One role that stood out to me was a cell culture technician, who cultivates bacterial and viral cells to study their structure and help develop medicines to treat diseases. These professionals were even involved in creating the COVID-19 vaccine. This ties into what we’ll be learning next year, like how to grow specific types of bacteria in the lab.” By exploring career paths and understanding how their current studies relate to real-world applications, students gain a clearer picture of how biotechnology plays a vital role in advancing healthcare and scientific research.
In the Biotechnology pathway, students often find that the most memorable parts of the course come from the hands-on experiences and the freedom to express their own ideas. Whether it’s using lab equipment or writing lab reports, the class encourages creativity and independence. Maanya says,” My favorite part of this year would be learning how to micropipette as it’s honestly just a really fun instrument to use. I also liked being able to write about what we want in our lab reports instead of being forced to sit by a rubric. It really makes me feel like I’m writing about what is actually important to me instead of something the teacher wants.” Experiences like this show how the course helps students feel more engaged and invested in their learning. By combining technical skills with personal expression, the Biotechnology pathway creates a learning environment that is both educational and enjoyable.
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