There’s not a “one size fits all” approach to eliminating microbes. You have to follow very specific procedures - SOPs - in order to know the right chemicals to use in the right combinations and at the right times. And that’s what we’re going to explore in the lab today. Let’s see how effective some common lab disinfectants and detergents are eliminating non-pathogenic E. coli. Then we’ll see how well they work against a diluted stock of Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) spores.

Caution: Always wear the appropriate PPE.

The BioWork certificate program will teach you the foundational skills you need to begin a career as a process technician for a biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or chemical manufacturing company. BioWork is offered at ten NC Community Colleges around the state. To find the one nearest you, visit: https://ncbionetwork.org/biowork.