Biological Technician how-to
How to Set Up a PCR Reaction
Careful setup gives clean results.
Quick answer
Careful setup gives clean results. In short: thaw; make; add, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Thaw reagents on ice.
Make a master mix.
Add template DNA.
Include positive and negative controls.
Spin down tubes.
Run the program.
Safety reminders for biological technicians
- Follow biosafety level rules
- Wear PPE
- Dispose of biohazards correctly
- Never mouth-pipette
Key terms
PCR · Aseptic technique · Cell culture · Assay · Gel electrophoresis · Centrifuge: see the full biological technician glossary.