Practical laboratory skills for molecular biologists

Working in any kind of laboratory will require the analyst to possess a basic set of practical skills. Measuring mass or volume, and preparing solutions of known concentration, are likely to be everyday activities. In addition, working in a molecular biology laboratory will entail specific considerations related to the nature of the materials being handled.

This guide covers the basic laboratory skills and other measures required to produce valid results in a molecular biology laboratory − results that are not compromised by poor practical technique, possible cross-contamination or non-validated methodology.