Genes in Space

STEM

miniPCR bio, Boeing, New England Biolabs and the ISS National Laboratory

Winning 2026 experiment launches to the ISS (following the announced 2027 launch window)approximate

March 1, 2027 (UTC-4)

A US contest that asks students in grades 7 through 12 to design a DNA experiment that solves a real problem in space exploration, with no prior lab experience required. The winning team's experiment is carried out in orbit by astronauts aboard the International Space Station using miniPCR biotechnology.

Registration

Format: Online
Age: 12-18
Participation: Individual or team
Location: United States
Entry fee: Free
Prize: The winning experiment is flown to and run on the International Space Station; finalists' schools receive a DNA Discovery System valued at USD 950.

Timeline

Applications openJanuary 5, 2026 (UTC-5) source
Submission deadlineApril 10, 2026 (UTC-4) source
Winners announcedapproximateJuly 1, 2026 (UTC-4) source
Winning 2026 experiment launches to the ISS (following the announced 2027 launch window)approximateMarch 1, 2027 (UTC-4) source

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