Summer Camps
We are excited to announce the programs below for summer 2026!
Can't make it this year? Join our email list for summer 2027!
Virtual Camp
Gene Expression Research
Intended for students completing grades 9 and up and priced at $245
July 22 - July 24 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM Eastern Time
This interactive program features authentic science research projects focused on gene expression. Students who previously attended a DNA Summer Camp are encouraged to sign up, but no previous experience is required. This camp will allow students to learn about gene expression throughout the body and under different environmental conditions. Physical equipment will not be mailed, this program will be conducted entirely online. Because it is interactive, it is essential that you ensure your availablity in your time zone.
DNA Odyssey Camps - Closed for 2026
Intended for students currently in grades 7-10 priced at $1720
Students currently in 9th or 10th grade: July 5 - July 10
Students currently in 7th or 8th grade: July 12 - July 17
The Odyssey is a 6 day, 5 night camp from Sunday afternoon to Friday afternoon. During these overnight camps, students will experience dorm life in one of the residential dorms on the University of Notre Dame campus (multi-occupancy with roommates). A typical day will include time in the lab, various activities throughout campus, and dinner at the Dining Hall. Students will be supervised at all times by current Notre Dame students serving as camp counselors throughout the week.
Tuition includes housing, meals, lab supplies, and a keepsake T-shirt and water bottle. Limited need-based financial assistance is available, so please contact us before registering if assistance is required for your attendance. If you are interested in attending a week outside your intended age range, please contact us prior to registering.
DNA Catalyst Camp - Closed for 2026
For students currently in grades 7-10 and priced at $830
Students currently in 7th, 8th, or 9th grade: June 15 - June 17
The Catalyst is a 3 day, 2 night experience designed for students who want an immersive introduction to genetics in a shorter format. Campers stay in a Notre Dame residence hall, conduct hands-on experiments in the DNA Learning Center’s laboratory, and enjoy meals in the campus dining hall, all under the supervision of experienced camp counselors. Catalyst offers the energy and rigor of our residential camps in a condensed, high-impact experience.
DNA Workshops - Closed for 2026
For students currently in grades 8-10
DNA & Food/Taste: June 22 - June 23
DNA & Sports Performance: July 20 - July 21
Choose between the Day Program 2-Day Workshop or the Overnight experience. These workshops are designed for students who have an interest in genetics and features advanced, hands-on experiments. Tuition for workshops includes all lab supplies and a keepsake t-shirt.
Day Program Workshop $195
Drop off your student at 9:30am and pick up at 3:30pm. Lunch will be provided both days.
Overnight Workshop $375
Drop off your student at 9:30am with their overnight gear (a packing list will be provided). Students will conduct experiments in the lab, participate in activities around campus, and stay in a residential hall with students from the same program. Overnight campers will be provided meals during their stay. Pick up your student at 3:30pm on the last day.
Alumni Camp - Closed for 2026
Intended for returning campers and priced at $850
June 29 - July 1
We are excited to introduce our first-ever Alumni Camp! This special program is designed for former DNALC students who want to reconnect, explore advanced topics, and spend time in the lab again. We hope to welcome your young scientist back to campus!
All programs have a minumum registration number required. For more information about any of these programs, please contact the DNA Center Administrator at 574-631-1506 or email AdminDNAcenter@nd.edu.