National Centre for Biotechnology Education - NCBE

🧬 Explore the Power of Restriction Enzymes!

See molecular biology in action with our Lambda DNA Electrophoresis Kit, using lambda DNA and restriction enzymes to demonstrate how DNA can be cut into different fragment patterns and separated by gel electrophoresis.

In this gel image:

🔹 Lanes 2 & 6 – Undigested lambda DNA (the original DNA sample)
🔹 Lanes 3–5 – Lambda DNA digested with EcoRI, HindIII, and BamHI, producing different banding patterns depending on where each enzyme cuts the DNA

Why are the patterns different? Each restriction enzyme recognises a unique DNA sequence and cuts at specific locations, creating fragments of varying sizes. This clearly demonstrates the specificity of restriction enzymes and how scientists analyse DNA using electrophoresis.

A fantastic hands-on way to bring genetics and biotechnology to life in the classroom!
https://www.ncbe.reading.ac.uk/the-lambda-protocol/

A huge thank you to for welcoming our final year Food and Nutritional Sciences student ambassadors this week!

Our students loved chatting with Food Technology pupils about studying Food Science and Nutrition at University of Reading, sharing their experiences of university life, and discussing the exciting range of careers available within the food industry. From product development and nutrition to sensory science and food innovation, there are so many pathways to explore!

We also had a special guest joining us in the photo — the cuddly red kite mascot CK from the Reading Ladies RFC ❤️ A fitting companion, as one of our ambassadors proudly plays for them!

It was fantastic to inspire the next generation of food scientists and nutritionists, thank you again for having us!

Yesterday we had a fantastic time running a science technician workshop at Leighton Park School, where we explored hands-on DNA experiments and gel electrophoresis techniques with the science technicians from the local area.

The session focused on building confidence with practical molecular biology methods, from handling DNA samples to preparing and running agarose gels. It was great to see such enthusiasm and engagement throughout the workshop, with technicians sharing ideas and experiencing the experiments from both a student and technician's perspective.

Science technicians play a vital role in delivering inspiring, engaging, and effective practical science lessons, while providing invaluable support across the entire department. It was a real pleasure to contribute to their professional development in a small way. A huge thank you to everyone at Leighton Park School for the warm welcome, enthusiasm, and fantastic participation from everyone who attended.

✨ Celebrating our Scientists of the Future! ✨

Yesterday, we had the absolute pleasure of hosting our annual Scientists of the Future Day – and what an inspiring day it was!

Welcoming a fantastic group of Year 11 and 12 students from 10 different schools across the UK, the day was packed with hands-on science. From performing DNA electrophoresis and mastering micropipettes, to exploring chemical equilibria and diving into the science of flavour and nutrition, students truly experienced what it’s like to be a scientist.

Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and engagement made the day incredibly rewarding – and we’ve already received some brilliant feedback!

Now in its fourth year, this event continues to grow in popularity, with over 200 applications for just 30 places this year. It’s clear that the next generation of scientists is full of passion and potential, and we’re proud to play a small part in their journey.

A huge thank you to everyone who made the day possible and to the students who brought such energy and excitement to every session.

It’s that time of year again, when students and teachers get to make bacteria fluoresce! ✨

Bacterial transformations are one of my favourite practicals. They’re a brilliant hands-on way for students to practise aseptic technique while exploring how plasmids work. It’s a great opportunity to see how bacteria can carry useful genes; like antibiotic resistance, and how these genes can be shared between bacterial cells.

And let’s be honest… who doesn’t love glowing green bacteria? 💚

Want the best results with our kit? Check out our video: https://youtu.be/vli2ZJdhonw

Did you know? You can now future-proof your microbiology slope cultures!

When you order one of our microbiology slope cultures, you can purchase a ready-made sub-culture slope at the same time 🙌

✨ Why does this matter?
• Sub-culture straight away for a backup or
• Sub-culture after 2–3 months to keep your culture viable for longer

🔬 Best practice reminder:
Always plate out your culture first to check for contamination, then select a single colony for your new sub-culture slope.

🛒 How to order:
📧 Email: [email protected]

💻 Buy online: https://www.store.reading.ac.uk/product-catalogue/national-centre-for-biotechnology-education/enzymes-microbial-cultures/slope-culture-ready-made-sub-culture-slope

📋 Want to see our full range of cultures?
Visit: https://www.ncbe.reading.ac.uk/slope-cultures/

🧪 It’s lactase season again! 🧪
If you’re preparing lactase practicals for your classes, make life easier with our ready-to-dilute lactase.

Our high-quality enzyme saves you both time and money — just £21 for 100 ml (excl. VAT).
And don’t forget to explore our immobilised lactase practical, perfect for hands-on learning.

🔗 Find out more: https://www.ncbe.reading.ac.uk/lactase-%ce%b2-galactosidase/

to place an order email us [email protected] or visit our online store: www.store.reading.ac.uk/product-catalogue/national-centre-for-biotechnology-education/enzymes-microbial-cultures/lactozym-pure-lactase

🎉 Happy New Year from the NCBE! 🎉
We’re back open after the Christmas break and ready to support you for the busy term ahead.
January is a peak time for science practicals, so whether you need high-quality liquid enzymes to make set-up quick and easy, a bacterial transformation kit for just £85, or you’re planning some cauliflower cloning, we’ve got you covered.
We’re fully stocked and always happy to offer advice or support.
Email us at [email protected] or
Visit our online store: https://www.store.reading.ac.uk/product-catalogue/national-centre-for-biotechnology-education
Here’s to a great start to the new year! 🧬✨

🎄 Merry Christmas from everyone at the NCBE!

We’d like to thank our fantastic community of teachers, technicians, students and researchers for your support throughout the year. We wish you a very happy festive season and a bright New Year ahead.