Classroom Engagement: Petri Plate Art
Science and Art Merge in Biochemistry 2 Lab
The Department of Biology & Biochemistry hosted the first Petri Plate Art Contest as part of the Biochemistry 2 Lab course taught by Donna Pattison, instructional professor and NSM assistant dean for student success.
Over 70 students competed using a palette of color-producing E. coli to produce art in a petri dish with some strains also producing fluorescence under blue light. This engaging and fun activity resulted from a culmination of lessons ranging from sterile technique, antibiotic resistance, recombinant gene expression and cloning, purification of fluorescent proteins, and discussion of the uses of fluorescent proteins in research.
“A light-hearted, low-stakes competition generates energy and can provide a little motivational boost, particularly when the stress and fatigue of the semester starts setting in,” Pattison said.
Prizes were awarded in unique categories: Best Complete Coverage of the Plate, Best Abstract Art, Best Biology-Themed Plate, Best Art in White and Blue Light, Best Critters, a Kaleidoscope Award, and a Grand Award - Best in Class.
The Best-in-Class Award went to biochemistry major Rahila Syeda for her intricate and delicate floral petri art. Syeda received a UH mug for her work.
The project resulted in a lot of laughter and camaraderie among the students. “Science and art often go together,” Pattison said. “Creative minds lead to creative solutions and breakthroughs in understanding.”