Afterschool programs: Enter the Community in Nature Prize Challenge! Help youth design an impactful community project and compete to win up to $3,500.
From developing cures for cancer to solving the world’s food crisis, genomics is full of meaningful and exciting career opportunities. These roles are critical to solving the biggest challenges facing people and communities by using genomics to unlock the code of life. Through our DNA science resources for educators, including hands-on activities like DNA extraction experiments and exclusive career chats with genomics leaders, we help young people across America discover that innovation is truly in their DNA—and that breakthroughs in health, agriculture, and beyond all connect back to the power of genomics.
STEM Next is proud to partner with global genomics leader Illumina on the “Future is Bright” campaign to bring the power and wonder of DNA science to afterschool and summer programs nationwide. DNA Day in April is an exciting time to celebrate the power of DNA science and the many career opportunities it offers. STEM Next has helped thousands of afterschool program providers engage kids with hands-on activities and lessons plans that help excite their curiosity about genetics and genomics.
In this training, we show educators how to host exciting DNA Day experiences with youth.
In this exciting hands-on activity, kids learn how DNA can be isolated from a strawberry.
For the strawberry DNA extraction experiment, you can DIY the materials or order all-in-one kits.
“This was such an engaging lesson, and my students loved the career connections! Thank you for everything!”
Brittany Timms
K-5 STEAM Teacher, Florida
“I appreciate having the resources to provide my students with hands-on learning experiences. They were able to put into practice lab safety and protocols, with the goals of students developing more curiosity about medical science.”
TJ Olenja
STEM Teacher, South Carolina
“We do not usually get to do a lot of hands-on labs in other classes, and it was nice to try something new.”
Mary M.
Student, South Carolina
Through STEM Next’s Genomics Learning Journeys, educators can inspire youth with interactive lessons that reveal the incredible world of DNA. Created in partnership with Illumina, these ready-to-use lesson bundles help young people explore how genomics is driving breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture, and beyond while connecting classroom learning to real-world careers. With engaging videos, hands-on activities, and step-by-step guides tailored for out-of-school settings, these journeys make complex science fun, relatable, and full of opportunity for youth of all backgrounds and experience levels.
Imagine decoding DNA to find cures for diseases, engineer crops that feed the world, or solve crimes using genetic clues. These STEM role models aren’t just imagining– they’re making it happen.
