PortLab is a community project which includes people of diverse backgrounds (students, artists, amateur and professional scientists), attracted by the potential of molecular and synthetic biology, basically anyone wishing to participate in scientific research. Our purpose is to promote citizen science through access to biotechnology and education. Anyone is welcome, so get involved!

We also host a Journal Club which meets regularly to discuss an area of scientific interest using a peer-reviewed scientific paper as the centerpiece. A member will suggest a topic and a research article for the group to read and discuss. Each meeting begins with a summary of the chosen paper followed by lively discussion. This is an interactive event for participants to ask questions, inquire about aspects of the experimental design, comment on methods, and bring a healthy amount of skepticism to the results.