National DNA Day
D N A Day April 20 2011 - Go to D N A Day home

About National DNA Day

First DNA Day logo, 2004National DNA Day commemorates the successful completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003 and the discovery of DNA's double helix by James Watson and Francis Crick in 1953. This annual celebration offers students, teachers and the public many exciting opportunities to learn about the latest advances in genomic research and explore what they may mean for their lives.

A wide variety of National DNA Day events are sponsored by the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), in cooperation with the American Society of Human Genetics [ashg.org], the Genetic Alliance [geneticalliance.org], the American College of Medical Genetics (AMCG) [acmg.net], the International Society of Nurses in Genetics (ISONG) [isong.org], the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) [nsgc.org], and the American Pharmacist Association [pharmacist.com].

For more on the history and purpose of National DNA Day, read the concurrent Congressional resolutions that established the event:

Funding Opportunities

National DNA Day Funding
Starting in 2007, NHGRI and the Education and Community Involvement Branch offered small award opportunities for groups to create 2008 National DNA Day programs in their communities. Learn about the community-based programs funded for 2012: National DNA Day Small Award Abstracts.

For questions about DNA Day or DNA Day resources, please send an e-mail to: easterc@mail.nih.gov

Top of page

Last Updated: February 25, 2012