Biotechnology, Art, and Science Communication: An Integrated Academic Repository of Molecular Diagnostics and Bio-Art (UDES 2026)
Description
This dataset constitutes the official academic record of the Biotechnology and Science Communication Classroom Project, developed during the first semester of 2026 by students of the Bacteriology and Clinical Laboratory Program at the Universidad de Santander (UDES), Bucaramanga, Colombia. The project integrates advanced molecular biotechnology techniques with science communication through bio-art. It documents a comprehensive learning process that includes the epidemiological analysis of clinical and veterinary pathogens, primer design, conventional and real-time PCR (qPCR) protocols, and genetic cloning strategies. This academic exercise culminates in the creation of "Agar-Art"—biological artworks used as a vehicle to translate complex molecular data into accessible visual narratives for the public. The dataset reflects a multidisciplinary workflow organized into two main pillars. Documentation of the selection and analysis of target organisms, focusing on their public health relevance in Colombia. This includes the justification of genetic targets, the bioinformatic design of specific primers, and the proposal of biotechnological solutions through molecular cloning. and a series of artistic representations using microbial culture media (Agar-Art), supplemented by audiovisual materials (1–2 minute explanatory videos) designed to bridge the gap between specialized laboratory practices and community understanding. Steps to reproduce This dataset was generated within the framework of the Biotechnology and Science Communication Classroom Project at the Universidad de Santander (UDES), integrating clinical microbiology, molecular biology, bioinformatics, and bio-art. The process began with the selection of a specific microorganism based on its epidemiological relevance in Colombia, followed by a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis to identify genetic targets and the design of specific primers using specialized software. The technical execution included the application of conventional and real-time PCR (qPCR) protocols, as well as the development of biotechnological solutions through molecular cloning strategies. All laboratory activities were conducted under BSL-1/BSL-2 containment conditions, strictly following institutional regulations and the provided Biosafety Guide. The integration of science communication was achieved through the creation of "Agar-Art," where students translated molecular data into biological artworks using controlled microbiological culture techniques on selective and differential media. This process was complemented by the production of 1–2 minute explanatory videos designed for public outreach, linking the clinical importance of the pathogen with the molecular results obtained. Each project was documented through digital reproductions, explanatory scripts, and metadata records that capture the scientific and artistic rationale behind each work.