College Credit Plus (CCP) Biology students are taking hands-on learning to the next level with an exciting research opportunity that combines fieldwork and advanced laboratory techniques. This past month students traveled to the University of Mount Union, where they worked alongside expert researchers to extract and purify DNA from insect specimens they collected in the fall. Now, leveraging state-of-the-art equipment in NDCL's newly upgraded science labs, they will amplify the DNA using PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and analyze it through gel electrophoresis. This cutting-edge process will allow students to determine whether their specimens were infected with Wolbachia, a bacterial parasite known to influence insect populations. With access to university partnerships and innovative laboratory tools, our CCP Biology students are bringing high-level research opportunities directly into our classrooms.