Scientists

Ambassador sign-up for NC DNA Day 2024 is open!

Please sign up here: https://unc.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_87c7Cq7amEIqWgu 

Welcome to the NC DNA Day Ambassador page!

Being an NC DNA Day Ambassador gives you the chance to share your love of science with the next generation! DNA Day Ambassadors will visit a high school classroom in North Carolina and present an exciting and interactive module that has been developed by UNC Chapel Hill graduate students and postdocs. These modules are reviewed by educators and high school students to ensure you will be delivering an effective and exciting scientific educational module.  You will also have an opportunity to tell high school students about your own research interests and highlight the many exciting career opportunities available in scientific research!

Ambassadors are given gas cards to cover travel expenses and all the materials needed for the hands-on acrivities are provided free of charge.

In addition to inspiring the next generation of scientists, this experience will provide you with an opportunity to interact with high school students and gain valuable teaching and science education outreach experience.

REQUIREMENTS FOR DNA DAY AMBASSADORS

You are welcome (and encouraged) to recruit a partner.  We strongly recommend that you meet with your teaching partner ahead of time and agree how you will coordinate the presentation.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON DNA DAY

Questions?  Send us an email!

Quotes from past NC DNA Day Ambassadors

Our genetics are going to play an important role in the future on many different levels, including health care. It is crucial for students to have an understanding of what the human genome is and the ethical implications of its use beyond just the biology of DNA. I am very excited to share some “real life” applications of biology with students and hopefully inspire a new appreciation for science in the process.
Elizabeth Sweger, UNC-Chapel Hill Graduate Student

Many students think of scientists as old men in lab coats. Hopefully, we’ll abolish their stereotypes and leave them thinking that science is really cool and inspiring. My hope is that our program will motivate a whole new generation of scientists.
Jessica Harell, UNC-Chapel Hill Graduate Student

I think DNA Day is a wonderful opportunity to not only discuss aspects and implications of the genome project, but also to demystify the image of a scientist. We can show these students that we are not crazy people walking around with wild hair with beakers containing colored bubbling liquid that is about to explode, but that we are people who truly want to make a difference to help society, and hopefully, encourage some of them to join the cause. I am honored to be a part of DNA Day.
Michael Johnson, UNC-Chapel Hill Graduate Student