Celebrate National DNA Day on April 25th!
National DNA Day is the perfect time to share what you know about DNA and learn more. Visit the National DNA Day website to find resources for teachers, students, and anyone else who wants to improve their understanding of DNA, genetics, and genomics. The website also has information for experts in genetics and genomics who are interested in outreach to schools and other places in their community. Read more about how you can participate in National DNA Day.
National DNA Day activities and resources include
- National Human Genome Research Institute DNA Day 20th Anniversary Symposium. The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) at the National Institutes of Health will host a symposium on April 25, 2023, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., to celebrate two special milestones: the 20th anniversary of the Human Genome Project’s completion and the 70th anniversary of the discovery that DNA is a double helix. Attendees will explore the progress and future of genomics research, learn about the impacts of genomics on society, and discover the many types of careers in genetics and genomics—from scientists to social media specialists. All will be invited to participate in fun and interactive experiences aimed to inspire future leaders in the field. Register beforehand to attend in person or virtually. Follow #NHGRIevents and #DNADay23 on social media for more information.
- DNA Day Activity Ideas. Whether you are a teacher who wants to help your students learn more about DNA or a scientist who needs ideas for how to talk to students in your community about genetics, visit the National DNA Day website for helpful resources. Modules for classroom outreach, lesson plans, and educational videos on scientific topics and experiments are among the many resources listed. Teachers and parents, there are even contests where your students can show off what they’ve learned.
- American Society of Human Genetics’ DNA Day Essay Contest for High School Students. Read selections from winning essays in which students explain what the American Society of Human Genetics’ 75th anniversary theme, “One Humanity, Many Genomes,” means to them. Essays include examples of what makes our genomes unique and the impact of advances in understanding our genomes.
- Genome: Unlocking Life’s Code’s Ten Helpful Tools for Teaching DNA. Explore different resources to increase your understanding of DNA and find ideas for the classroom.
- Genetics Engagement & Education Network. Search this American Society of Human Genetics network to find genetics experts near you who can answer your genetics-related questions. The Genetics Engagement & Education Network Toolkit is geared toward scientists planning to present at schools, but teachers and parents might also find helpful resources. The toolkit includes lessons, games, case studies, direct-to-consumer kit information, and helpful tips on presenting at schools.
Use the DNA Day Starter Kit if you’d like to plan an event yourself and register your event so it can be listed on the National DNA Day Network Map.
Congress approved the first National DNA Day in April 2003 to celebrate both the completion of the Human Genome Project and the 50th anniversary of the discovery of the double helix structure of DNA. NHGRI sponsors National DNA Day.