Skip Navigation
The Tech has been doing R&D since 2016 to identify, establish, and refine an array of biological systems that allow novices to tinker with biology. The resources on this page are meant to help others get started with biotinkering, either by replicating our experiences or by using them as a starting point or their own explorations.
We have created three activity formats designed for different venues or operational contexts. Explore the formats and mix and match as you find useful! Depending on your location or audience, a full science center program might not be the right entry point for your biotinkering journey. Try our other activity formats instead for an easier entry point and more accessible materials.
Science Center Programs
These comprehensive resource packets will help you set up and run facilitated biotinkering experiences in a workshop, lab, or programming space.
Bacterial Inks
Harvest, tinker, and create art with color-changing pigment produced by bacteria.
Ancient DNA Stories
Uncover the stories of people who lived thousands of years ago using DNA.
Making with Microbes
Collaborate with tiny living organisms to design, mix, and grow a biomaterial.
Draw with DNA
Build a marker with custom-made ink infused with a secret DNA message.
Algae String
Design and create colorful string using biological building blocks from seaweed.
At Home Activities
These DIY activities are designed for families to use at home in combination with inexpensive store-bought supplies and materials from around the house.
Making with Microbes
Collaborate with tiny living organisms to design, mix, and grow a custom biomaterial.
Algae String
Design and create colorful string using biological building blocks from seaweed.
Cabbage Inks
Harvest, tinker, and create art with color-changing pigment from a living thing.
Classroom Lessons
These lesson plans are specifically designed to support teachers who are running activities in a classroom setting.
Algae String
Design and create colorful string using biological building blocks from seaweed.
Evolutionary Puzzles
Create, organize, and structure data to explore patterns of heredity.
This work was made possible by a Science Education Partnership Award (SEPA) from the
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
