Genes in Space

About

Genes in Space is a national STEM competition that invites students in grades 7-12 to design innovative biotechnology experiments for the International Space Station (ISS). Its mission is to inspire the next generation of scientists by providing a platform where student-driven research can actually be conducted in orbit. Participants identify a biological question related to space travel, formulate a hypothesis, and design an experiment using molecular biology tools such as PCR or CRISPR. The unique value of the program lies in its ultimate prize: the winning experiment is physically launched to the ISS and performed by astronauts. Throughout the process, finalists receive professional mentorship from Harvard and MIT-based scientists to refine their proposals. The program bridges the gap between classroom learning and professional space biology research, offering students a rare opportunity to contribute to the future of space exploration.

Application Requirements