This is course #2 of a 5-part fundamentals of RT-qPCR series. These courses will give you an understanding of basic RT-qPCR techniques and troubleshooting for each step of the gene expression workflow.

 

Courses are led by Bio-Rad's Field Application Specialists, who have diligently compiled all the questions they have received in the field and have designed this program to be both comprehensive and efficient.

 

You will receive a downloadable certificate upon successful completion of each course.

What you will learn

in Course #2: RNA Sample Preparation Considerations for RT‑qPCR

  • Overview of RNA function, diversity, and key characteristics

  • RNA Isolation: Methods and precautions to ensure a pure and intact RNA

  • cDNA Synthesis: Review RT process, enzymes, and suitability for different RNA biotypes

  • RNA quantification/quality methods

Course Overview

This is a preview, please enroll to access these lessons

    1. Welcome to the course

    2. How to use this course

    3. Meet the instructor

    1. RNA Function, Diversity, and Key Characteristics

    2. Quiz #1

    1. RNA Isolation: The Importance of Pure, Intact Extract

    2. Quiz #2

    1. Exploring Methods to Validate Extract Quality and Quantity

    2. Quiz #3

    1. cDNA Synthesis: RT Process, Enzymes, and Suitability for RNA Biotypes

    2. Quiz #4

    1. Sample Preparation for RT-qPCR Resources

    2. Get Your Free Gene Expression University Poster

About this course

  • Free
  • 13 lessons
  • 1 hour of video content

Meet your instructor

Field Application Specialist Jordan Sheets

Jordan Sheets, PhD, MS, is a Senior Genomics Field Application Scientist at Bio-Rad Laboratories, supporting biopharma researchers across the western United States. He specializes in helping scientists apply qPCR and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) to challenging questions in cell and gene therapy development. With a PhD in Basic Biomedical Sciences, a master’s in Integrative Genomics, and postdoctoral training at Sanford Research, Jordan brings a broad research perspective to practical problem-solving. His approach to teaching connects complex genomic concepts with clear explanations and real-world applications, helping researchers turn data into confident decisions.

Reviews for this course

FAQ

  • Who should take this course?

    This course is designed for people who want to have a fundamental understanding of RT-qPCR and gene expression.

  • How long will this course take?

    This class should take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to complete.

  • Can I get a certificate for this course?

    Once all sections of this course have been completed a certificate with your name and course name will be available for download.

  • Will I be able to ask questions and get answers?

    By enrolling in this class you will be automatically added to Bio-Rad's RT-qPCR and Gene Expression community. This is a highly collaborative place to ask questions and share ideas with the instructors and your peers. You can post pictures, comments and reply to others.

  • What are the other classes in this series?

    There are five classes in the "Fundamentals of RT-qPCR and Gene Expression" series. Course 1: Introduction to RT-qPCR and gene expression, Course 2: RNA sample preparation considerations, Course 3: Experimental design for gene expression, Course 4: Assay optimization, Course 5: Gene expression analysis

  • Do I have to take the classes in order?

    It is recommended that you take the 5 fundamentals of RT-qPCR and gene expression classes in order. There are concepts introduced in earlier classes that are referred to in the later classes.