1. A. Malcolm Campbell and Todd T. Eckdahl
Using Synthetic Biology and pClone Red for Authentic Research on Promoter Function: Introductory Biology (identifying new promoters)
A. Malcolm Campbell and Todd T. Eckdahl

2. What is synthetic biology?
There is no universally accepted definition of synthetic biology, but this one will suffice.
GCAT SynBio

3. Basic Cloning Process
The freely available movie illustrates how restriction enzymes slide along DNA and cut at particular sequences. Later, ligase makes new covalent bonds from ATP (not shown) to reclose the plasmid circle. The animation makes it appear that the insert knows where to go when in fact it actually is a more random process.
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory: DNA Learning Center

4. Registry of Standard Parts
Screenshot from the world’s largest open access database of synthetic biology parts, devices and systems. These were contributed largely by undergraduates from around the world as part of the iGEM (international Genetically Engineered Machines) competition. Labs can join the Registry by ing the iGEM owners. (
iGEM HQ

5. Register Your Lab iGEM HQ
Directions for instructors to use if they want to join the iGEM Registry.
iGEM HQ

6. Registry of Functional Promoters
This registry allows undergraduates to submit their promoter sequences to a unified database that allows users to compare relative strengths since all promoters are compared to a common standard. (

7. PubMed
Screenshot of the PubMed literature database where students can search for papers describing promoters.

8. Google Scholar
Screenshot of Google Scholar where students can search for papers describing promoters.