Did you know? Synthetic biology, an exciting frontier in science, involves using computational and design technology to modify biological cells. And when we make it accessible to under resourced communities, we create more than just science opportunities—we create pathways for powerful intergenerational learning. 🌿🧬
Funded by an NSF Advancing Informal STEM Learning (AISL) award to the University of Texas, El Paso (UTEP)’s Justice T. Walker, Synthetic Biology and Me: Co-Designing Culturally Responsive BioMaker Activities for Family Engagement in Underserved Communities aims to bridge the gap between cutting-edge science and the communities that need it most. This project partners with UMBC, La Nube (“the cloud”) in West Texas, and Baltimore Underground Science Space (BUGSS) to reach Hispanic and African American families in rural and resource-limited urban areas.
By focusing on informal science education, this 3- year citizen science project emphasizes the critical role of co-designing and intergenerational learning—parents and children learning side by side—ensuring that scientific discovery resonates across age groups and cultural contexts.
MN Associates, Inc. (MNA), as the project evaluator, will ensure that this work makes a lasting impact.
Through culturally responsive co-designed biomaker activities like Agar Art, Building with Mycelium, and Algae BioString, over 500 participants will explore synthetic biology in ways that connect deeply with their lived experiences and values. This is more than just learning—it’s community-driven science that ignites curiosity, builds STEM confidence, and strengthens family ties.
The potential for transformational impact is enormous. Intergenerational learning in informal science settings fosters collaboration, enhances knowledge retention, and can inspire entire communities to engage in STEM. These innovative activities will serve as a model for how culturally relevant science can change lives in underserved areas.
More to come!
