Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hi,
I was reading over the project The Tree of Life – II (advanced) (https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... e-advanced) and I really enjoyed it. I was wondering if there was a way to convert this into a more experimental project and utilize aspects of genetic engineering?

Hi!
You’re right that The Tree of Life – II (Advanced) is more focused on analysis, but it definitely could be adapted into an experimental project with some genetic engineering aspects if you have adequate resources. For example, instead of only using online databases, you could collect DNA from plants or bacteria. If you have the available resources you could try running a gel electrophoresis to compare genes with yourself. That way, you’d still be exploring evolutionary relationships, but you’d also be creating and testing your own evidence in the process.
https://youtu.be/QWkfXjGohVk?si=Ose2BfomrYp9m4Uz
Here is a link to a video that explains the process to help you. Wishing you the best of luck!