A free, hands-on DIY biohacking workshop at PDX Hackerspace (CTRL+H) covering PCR -- the polymerase chain reaction technique used to copy short segments of DNA using primers. Attendees learn how PCR can be used to check whether a specific gene is present in a sample, or to isolate DNA for downstream steps such as sequencing. Hosts Jonathan Whitaker and John Romkey (Johno) will walk through the method, run live demos, and then let participants try the process themselves. You are welcome to suggest primer pairs to test, and to bring mushroom or moth specimens along for identification. Donations toward primers (roughly $20 per pair) or sequencing (roughly $20 per organism) are appreciated but entirely optional. The process is slow, so some samples may be held back for a second run, and the hosts have prepared backup samples in case of problems. Open to all; no prior lab experience required. Admission is free. Runs 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM in Section 1 of the hackerspace.
