DNA Learning Center Science Camps

DNA Learning Center Science Camps include hands-on lab work where students construct cell and DNA models and use compound microscopes to view various cell types. Campers extract DNA from their own cells and from plants, use stereo microscopes to observe mutations in fruit flies, and genetically engineer bacteria cells with firefly genes. They also examine bacterial growth curves using the E.coli genetic system, compare rapid and classical methods of bacterial transformation using pAMP and pKAN plasmids, and perform restriction analysis, gel electrophoresis, plasmid digestion, ligation, transformation, and plasmid minipreparation to study recombinant DNA and COS sites.

• Ages: 10–18 years old
• Schedule: Spring break sessions run April 6–10, 2026, with Fun with DNA meeting Monday to Thursday 9:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. plus a Parent Day Friday 9:30–11:00 a.m., and DNA Science meeting Monday to Thursday 9:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. and Friday 9:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
• Price: Fun with DNA (spring break): $580 per student. DNA Science (spring break): $675 per student. Fun with DNA (summer): $600 in-person | $420 On-Demand. WiSE Fun with DNA: $650 in-person. World of Enzymes: $600 in-person. Green Genes: $600 in-person. Forensic Detectives: $600 in-person | $420 On-Demand. Forensic Crime Lab: $700 in-person. DNA Science (summer): $700 in-person. DNA Barcoding: $700 in-person | $420 On-Demand. Synthetic Biology: $700 in-person. BioCoding: $700 in-person. Genome Science: $700 in-person | $420 On-Demand. Sequence a Genome!: $700 in-person.

The DNA Learning Center is described as the world's first science center devoted entirely to genetics education. The camps are offered for science enthusiasts entering 6th–12th grades at several locations in the New York metropolitan area. Guided by experienced instructors, students use sophisticated laboratory and computer equipment to perform experiments several grade levels ahead of their peers. On-Demand Recorded Video Camps are available year-round as a virtual option that can be attended anytime, from anywhere. Science camps are offered in the New York metropolitan area, and scholarships, earlybird discounts, sibling discounts, and multi-camp discounts are available. The STARS STEM Program is available for students entering grades 10–12, runs Monday–Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and is offered as a scholarship program.

Last updated April 17, 2026.