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Become a space biology pioneer!

Solve a real-world challenge in space exploration

Meet our alumni

Learn about the experiments we've launched

Resources for teachers & students

Get the most out of your Genes in Space experience

Lab in a box

Teachers: conduct a hands-on Genes in Space lesson!

until the 2021 applications are due

The 2021 contest is open!

Apply today


THE CHALLENGE

Students in grades 7 through 12: design DNA experiments that address a challenge in space exploration

Life on Earth has evolved under the effects of our gravity and the protection of our atmosphere. Human space exploration opens up amazing new opportunities for life, and serious challenges too. 

For example:

  • ALIEN LIFE
    Can we detect new life forms?

  • ORGAN SYSTEMS
    Will space travel induce molecular changes that impact our eyes, bones, other organs?

  • COSMIC RADIATION
    How will a deep space mission affect our DNA?

  • BIOENGINEERING
    Can living organisms help us colonize new worlds?

  • SPACE MICROBIOME
    What microorganisms travel to space with us?

  • YOUR IDEA
    What’s the most creative, relevant, bold question you can ask?


If you've ever wondered how astronauts might survive a deep-space mission or how we might use biology to transform new worlds, Genes in Space is for you:

  • Propose an experiment that utilizes at least one tool in the Genes in Space Toolkit
  • Test your hypothesis in the ultimate lab: The International Space Station
GET STARTED

THE REWARD

BECOME A SPACE DNA PIONEER!

  • Explore a topic that interests you and learn space biology

  • Design your own DNA experiment

  • Share your ideas

  • Win awards including a miniPCR DNA Discovery System™ for your school, mentorship, travel, and more.

  • Launch your DNA experiment to the International Space Station (ISS)

NEWS

Blog

Celebrating our first virtual Space Biology Camp

Meet the Genes in Space Toolkit: the P51 fluorescence viewer

2019 Genes in Space winners complete another successful PCR experiment in space!

Meet the Genes in Space Toolkit: BioBits® cell-free system

Social Media

Tweets by genesinspace

Events

Upcoming events

Genes in Space virtual workshop

March 10, 2021

Application deadline

April 12, 2021 at 11:59pm PST

Genes in Space virtual workshop

April 19, 2021

Calendar

Genes in Space virtual workshop

March 10, 2021
View full calendar

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