Training

We provide training in the basics of Drosophila genetics

Our unique training package resources have been downloaded more than 30,000 times and are being used worldwide to train researchers in the essentials of fly genetics.

The training is time-saving for supervisors since it is predominantly based on self-study, whilst ensuring that all essentials are well covered. The Manchester Fly Facility training is explained in great detail in a dedicated publication.

In brief, the training package comprises four steps:

1. Self-guided study of the 30 page manual – ‘A rough guide to Drosophila mating schemes’.
2. Two hour practical training session – identifying gender and genetic marker mutations, fly life cycle, performing a cross.
3. A self-guided study of a PowerPoint presentation – explaining step-by- step how to solve a genetic crossing task.
4. Solving eight genetic crossing tasks – consolidating knowledge through application; helped by feedback from supervisors.

Expanding fly genetics training to university courses

We have applied our fly genetics training package on university courses of over 60 students, as an extremely effective way to teach classical genetics, based on active learning and improving problem solving skills. We also developed and tested suitable e-assessment strategies to examine the learned skills on large courses. To find out how this works and how it can be done, read our dedicated publication using the link below.

Course resources including a simpler version of the fly genetics manual, feasible schedules and other helpful materials can be downloaded from our repository.

We provide a tailored training service

Do you want to establish your own fly lab? We offer training at reasonable cost to individuals and groups. Training may include genetics, husbandry, fly food preparation, lab maintenance, ordering fly-specific resources, techniques for fly experiments etc.   

Further resources

For further resources regarding training and teaching Drosophila in schools and universities, see our droso4public and droso4school websites.