Sonification: What does DNA sound like?

Every living thing has a DNA code, which is comprised of 4 nucleotides. This code is responsible for instructing the cell on what proteins to make, how and when to make them, which ultimately make up the living organism. By looking at this code, biologists can group similar organisms into species, families, kingdoms and domains. DNA is inherited by offspring from parents, which is why children often resemble parents, whether you are a human, cat, fish or oak tree.

Human beings naturally have the superior capability to recognise changes and patterns in the different properties of sound through time, such as pitch (frequency), loudness, timbre, texture, etc. This is called auditory perception. We take advantage of this ability and translate DNA relationships into changes in sound properties so that they could be understood by the listener. 

This workshop will teach you to sonify the genome of a tree. You will also learn about the importance of genetics in trees and how they control the life of a long-lived oak.

Who can attend this masterclass?

This event is open to all students in Years 10, 11, 12 and 13. Students with an interest in Biology will benefit most from this session. Explore the rest of our masterclasses for more fun learning opportunities.

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Questions? Email the team masterclass@contacts.bham.ac.uk.