Biotechnology, Human Biology, & Medical Forensics
Instructor: Mary Carlson, Ph.D.
Biotech/ Human Biology/ Medical Forensics: These areas of study are laboratory-focused programs that teach basic lab techniques and their rationale. The biotechnology field applies the knowledge of biological organisms to problems that occur in the real world. The topics covered in this introductory biotechnology program include DNA isolation, DNA manipulation, protein isolation, protein manipulation, microbiology, genetics, bioinformatics, and much more. The Human Biology program teaches about the relevant ways humans interact with their environment so students can appreciate the natural world from a scientific perspective. The Medical Forensics class focuses on the proper way of documenting and processing a crime scene including laboratory methods. These topics are investigated in the laboratory using cutting edge equipment and in the computer lab using web tools and information.
Concurrent Classes: Offered the 1st semester through SLCC, BTEC 1000: Engineering Life 3 credits; Offered the 2nd semester through SLCC, BIOL 1090: Human Biology 3 Credits
Program Expectations: Students will be required to engage in class and laboratory activities, contribute to lab experiments, and be responsible for making up missed classes/ lab work outside of class time. Students must maintain an accurate lab book for documentation and follow standard operating procedures for each piece of equipment/ technique.
About Mary Carlson: After graduating with a B.S. degree in biology and chemistry from my home town college in Montana, I accepted a entry level technician position in a genetics lab at the University of Utah. I learned many genetic and molecular biology techniques and was part of early efforts to develop chromosomal markers. I later became part of a group that cloned the Adenomatous polyposis coli gene (APC) and then went on to pursue a Ph.D. in oncological sciences. As a scientist, I’ve had opportunities in industry and in basic research labs studying cancers of the blood and lymph as well as blood vessel hyperplasia. I’ve transitioned into education to share my love of the scientific process and extensive research background. I hope to introduce students to the theory and methods used in a biotechnology setting so they might have an amazing high school lab experience in preparation for future opportunities. I have embraced teaching as a career and expanded my knowledge base by learning about medical forensics concepts. I aspire to constantly improve my teaching practice. I was able to achieve National Board Certification in 2019 and recertify in 2024 as evidence of my commitment to pursue professional development and reflection. I participate in an educator cohort to better support my teaching problems of practice as well. I am married and have two daughters. I enjoy hiking with my family and friends and love to work on creative projects around my home.