This course focuses on the laboratory methods of extraction, purification, and identification of molecules from natural sources. Emphasis will be on DNA, plant pigments, and proteins. Techniques explored will include chemical and chromatography purification of DNA, chemical extraction of pigments, both thin layer and liquid chromatography and SDS-PAGE analysis. In addition this course will provide instruction on basic laboratory techniques such as; measurement, pipette use, pH measurement and adjustment, solution preparation, casting and running agarose and acrylamide gels, gel imaging using visible and fluorescent stains, and, quantification by absorbance.