Announcing the 2026 Genes in Space Contest
The countdown starts now:
Design an experiment that reaches space!
The Genes in Space Competition opens in January 2026, and we’re inviting students in grades 7–12 to design biotechnology experiments that could be conducted aboard the International Space Station. This is your chance to make history by advancing fundamental space biology research.
Each year, Genes in Space invites students to think like scientists and explore how molecular biology can help solve the biggest challenges of space exploration—from astronaut health to life support systems—and beyond. Astronauts carry out the winning experiment in orbit, turning student ideas into real space science.
You don’t need prior lab experience. Just bring your curiosity, creativity, and passion for discovery. Whether you dream of curing diseases, engineering life support systems, or understanding how life thrives beyond Earth, your idea could be the next to launch into orbit!
Contest details
- Who can enter: Students in grades 7–12 who attend a U.S. public, private, or home school. Applicants must be enrolled to study within the U.S. or its territories.
- Sponsor: Each team must have an adult sponsor. This can be a parent, a teacher, or a club sponsor.
- Prizes:
- The winning experiment will be launched to the International Space Station and performed by an astronaut.
- Five finalist teams will present at the Countdown to Discovery event in Houston, TX, July 28-30, 2026.
- Additional awards recognize outstanding junior scientists, teachers, and schools
Important dates
- Contest opens: January 5, 2026
- Submission deadline: April 14, 2026
- Countdown to Discovery event: July 28-30, 2026
How to get started
- Explore past winning experiments and access helpful resources.
- Review the contest details, and begin researching your topic.
- Write your proposal and click submit!
Genes in Space is a collaboration between miniPCR bio and Boeing, with support from the ISS National Laboratory and New England Biolabs.
