Natural History Investigations

After School Programs for High School Students

Join us for an after school program series that allows you to explore the world of natural history science in a fun and interactive way!

Who Should Apply?

Students in grades 9 through 12 who are interested in science and museums, and are looking for ways to go beyond what they learn in school.

What Will I Do?

• Meet and learn from museum scientists and educators
• Gain natural history science and technology skills
• Visit exclusive behind-the-scenes areas of the museum
• Meet other science-minded teens from across the D.C. metropolitan area

Details about the Program

Location

Q?rius, The Coralyn W. Whitney Science Education Center at the National Museum of Natural History

Dates, Times, and Program Themes

Here is the schedule of Natural History Investigations after-school sessions for winter 2020. Check back in the coming weeks for additional dates and themes!

Outbreak: Disease Detectives
5 – 7 p.m. on January 14, January 21, January 28, and February 4*
Ebola, flu, and HIV are viruses that frequently make the news ... but did you know that these viruses originated in animals and spread to humans? Join NMNH staff and Smithsonian scientists for a behind the scenes tour of our collections and explore some of the animal species most likely to host zoonotic diseases. Use game-like simulations to determine how you would respond to an outbreak of Ebola, and gain hands-on experience educating your community about flu.
 
*On February 4, participants are invited to attend in an optional after-hours program to learn more about how Smithsonian scientists are expanding our understanding of disease in humans and animals. This program will run from 6:45-8:30 p.m. and parents/guardians are also invited to attend.

Past Themes

Entomology: Exploring Insects
5 – 7 p.m. on October 23, October 30, November 6, and November 13
With over 35 million specimens from around the globe, the Smithsonian insect collection is one of the largest entomological collections in the world. Join NMNH staff and scientists for a behind-the-scenes tour of the entomology collection, a hands-on demonstration of pinning and preserving specimens, and an up-close exploration of the living denizens of our Insect Zoo.

How Do I Apply?

Applications will open in late November/early December.

Questions? Contact us at YouthNMNH@si.edu (link sends e-mail) or 202-633-4588

Please Note: 

• Students are required to attend all sessions within their program.
• Students can only be accepted to one program series.
• At the end of the program, students receive a certificate of completion, participate in a showcase for family and friends.
• Students can use the certificate of completion to demonstrate an interest in science when applying to the Youth Engagement through Science internship program or Q?Crew Teen Volunteer program.