Technology is moving so quickly that scientists are now able to analyze even invisible DNA in ways not imagined even a few years ago. Pete Countway, a senior research scientist at Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, will give a show and tell about one of many such innovations, a portable PCR (polymerase chain reaction) measurement device. PCR is a technique used to amplify/multiply a few pieces of DNA so that there are millions of copies of that particular DNA sequence. This amplification is needed to study genetic information of marine microbes, invisible yet vitally important organisms in marine ecosystems. Countway will detail how new technology is expanding knowledge about the ocean (and beyond) at an amazing clip.

The public is invited to come to Countway’s presentation on Tuesday evening, July 28 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Opera House at Boothbay Harbor, 86 Townsend Avenue in Boothbay Harbor. Countway’s presentation is the second in Bigelow Laboratory’s weekly summer “Café Scientifique” series, which is designed to give the public an opportunity to engage with scientists in an informal setting. Discussion is encouraged.

Café Scientifique is an international movement designed to encourage discussion about topical science issues between scientists and the public. There are more than 150 science cafés organized over 42 countries. All Café Scientifique events are open to the public free of charge, and members of the press are encouraged to attend. For more information, contact dcrist@bigelow.org or call 207-315-2567, ext. 103.