National DNA Day on April 25 commemorates the successful completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003 and the discovery of DNA’s double helix in 1953. The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) began celebrating DNA Day annually on April 25th after the 108th Congress passed concurrent resolutions designating it as DNA Day.

The goal of National DNA Day is to offer students, teachers, and the public an opportunity to learn about and celebrate the latest advances in genomic research and explore how those advances impact their lives. Educators can access free, virtual bundles of activities below, developed specifically for afterschool by STEM Next Opportunity Fund in partnership with global genomics leader Illumina. Get your youth started on their DNA learning journey today!

Educators have access to the following activity bundles:

• DNA: The Building Blocks — Learners get a crash course on the foundation of genomics and learn about the different careers that exist in the industry.
• DNA and Diseases — Learners consider the role genomics plays in the way we address viruses, bacteria, and other diseases, and also learn of the different careers that exist in the life sciences industry.
• DNA and The Role of BioTech — Learners see how genomics can be applied to develop tools to improve our quality of life, and also learn about the different careers that exist in the burgeoning biotech industry.

Get started with the Genomics Learning Journeys.

• WHAT: A self-guided online learning series by Genomic Learning Journeys for students, teachers, educators, and the public to learn more about DNA and the Human Genome Project
• WHEN: All month in April and beyond
• WHERE: Online