March 10, 2010
For immediate use

(DURHAM, N.C.) – Durham Technical Community College now offers new as well as existing Laboratory Assistant courses through the Corporate and Continuing Education division. The courses are taught in a newly-created laboratory with cutting-edge equipment. Upon completion of the courses, students can find employment at biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical labs, clinics, and hospitals. The courses are for those starting their career, looking for a career change, or wanting to refresh their skills. This program will soon offer a co-operative “externship” for students to obtain more experience in this field.
 
Laboratory Assistant courses include: Basic Laboratory Skills, a hands-on introductory course; Molecular Biology Techniques, an introduction to molecular biology and recombinant DNA techniques; Advanced Molecular Biology Techniques, which focuses on skills routinely used in molecular biology; Cell Culture Techniques, an introduction to the theory and practices required to initiate and maintain animal cell culture; and Advanced Cell Culture Techniques, in which students perform transfection of DNA into mammalian cells. 
 
To find out more about the Laboratory Assistant curriculum, visit the website at www.durhamtech.edu/html/current/noncredit/biopharma.htm#labasst or call 919-536-7252. Company officials who are interested in partnering with Durham Tech in to offer student externships may contact Ingrid Charles at 919-536-7252 or charlesi@durhamtech.edu