Powered by Partners:
Illumina is proud to partner with STEM Next and Discovery Education to bring high-quality genomics learning experiences to students and educators everywhere. Together, we’re making DNA science engaging, accessible, and connected to real-world careers during DNA Day and all year long!
On this page, you will find hands-on lessons, classroom-ready educator resources, an immersive virtual field trip, and an upcoming webinar to help you plan a meaningful DNA Day experience. Scroll down to explore what each partner offers and find the resources that best fit your learning environment!
STEM Next
Hands-on Genomics Learning for Educators & Youth
STEM Next supports educators with practical, ready-to-use resources that make genomics approachable and exciting—especially in classroom, after school, and out-of-school-time settings.
What you’ll find from STEM Next:
- Genomics Learning Kits - Turnkey DNA science activities, including hands-on experiments like DNA extraction, paired with educator guides and facilitation tips.
- Genomics Learning Journeys - Three curated bundles of interactive STEM lessons that explore DNA science, real-world applications, and careers in genomics. Each journey includes activities, videos, and step-by-step facilitation guides.
- Educator Planning Support - Tools and resources designed to help educators confidently plan and lead DNA Day activities - no advanced science background required.
Perfect for: Educators looking for flexible, hands-on genomics activities that work across ages and learning settings.
Discovery Education
Immersive Learning & Virtual Experiences
Discovery Education brings DNA science to life through engaging digital content and real-world connections that spark curiosity and deepen understanding.
What you’ll find from Discovery Education:
- Nature's Blueprint Virtual Field Trip - Explores how genomics is transforming medicine, agriculture, conservation, and other real‑world applications.
- Genomics: Decoding the Language of Life Virtual Field Trip - Introduces students to the fundamentals of DNA and how genomics shapes the world around us.
- Secrets of Sequencing - Helps students understand how DNA sequencing works and why it matters in genomics.
Perfect for: Classrooms looking for an engaging, low-prep way to introduce genomics concepts and careers through storytelling and real-world science.
Plan for DNA Day: Register now for STEM Next’s Educator Webinar on April 16th!
Getting ready for DNA Day? Join this practical, educator-focused webinar to explore ready-to-use activities, free resources, and simple facilitation tips to help you plan a successful DNA Day celebration.
You’ll leave with:
- A clear plan for hosting DNA Day activities
- Ideas for adapting resources to different grade levels and settings
- Confidence to lead engaging genomics learning experiences
Celebrate DNA Day and Keep Learning All Year!
Whether you’re planning a one-day DNA Day celebration or building ongoing genomics learning into your program, Illumina’s partnerships with STEM Next and Discovery Education offer something for every educator and learner.
