Virtual Field Trip
Genomics: Decoding the Language of Life
Take students inside the labs at Illumina to explore cutting-edge sequencing technology that is being used to decode living things and revolutionize everything from medicine to agriculture to sustainability. Introduce students to an exciting and diverse group of individuals who are working on technology to improve lives and build a healthier future for our planet.
Classroom Conversation Starters
Grades:
6–12
Kickstart discussion and exploration in your class around key topics explored in the Virtual Field Trip.
- What traits are unique to you, and what traits do you have in common with others?
- What is the relationship between genomes, genetics, and traits?
- How does decoding the genome contribute to better medicine and health?
- What other areas besides medicine can gene sequencing be used to innovate?
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Get StartedEDUCATOR GUIDE

GENOMICS
VFT Educator Guide
Grade 6–12
Dive into the ways genomics is revolutionizing every aspect of life with a series of classroom tools and student activities designed for before and after watching the Virtual Field Trip.
Educator Companion GuideFEATURED CONTRIBUTORS
Get to know the wide variety of subject matter experts featured in Genomics: Decoding the Language of Life. Each contributor introduces students to a unique, groundbreaking application of genomics being used to improve the health of people, wildlife, or the environment.

Jason Button
Senior Sales Enablement Content Specialist
Jason helps consumers understand how to use Illumina technology in more effective ways.

Obi Onyeacholem
Senior Engineer
Obi works on developing cutting-edge applications of genomics and DNA sequencing.

Darcy Whitlock
Product Manager, Infectious Diseases and Microbiology
Darcy helps consumers use innovative tech that sequences the genome of infectious diseases.

Kahlil Lawless
Global AgriGenomics Segment Manager
Kahlil studies the application of genomics in agriculture, known as AgriGenomics.

Leslee Matsushige
Associate Curator, Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Leslee specializes in the animal husbandry (or care) required for seahorses and sea dragons.

Dr. Priyam Singh
Senior Bioinformatics Scientist
Dr. Singh is developing apps that harness genomic data to support microbiome (gut) health.

Diana Tuman
Associate Director, Customer Enablement Strategy
Diana explores the future possibilities of genomics, including Precision Medicine and Pharmacogenomics.