Genspace

Genspace is the world’s first community biology lab, dedicated to providing hands-on STEAM education programs for both youth and adults. The organization offers a range of cultural and outreach events for the public, including panel discussions, open labs, and movie nights. Genspace supports New York’s community of creatives, researchers, and entrepreneurs through its membership program, which grants 24/7 access to their Biosafety Level 1-compliant biolab equipped with advanced tools such as a spectrophotometer, plate reader, microscopes, and an Illumina MiniSeq Next-Gen Sequencer. The lab also offers classes taught by instructors from top institutions in the New York City area, covering emerging global technologies like biotechnology, neuroscience, epidemiology, and genomics. Additionally, Genspace provides extramural learning opportunities such as internships, teacher training, and lab resources for NYC students. Their three-month Artist in Residence (AIR) program supports artists exploring the intersection between science and the arts by providing scientific mentoring, access to laboratory facilities, classes, and a stipend. Genspace also offers a variety of workshops for companies seeking unique offsite experiences. The organization has been awarded a grant from the Illumina Corporate Foundation for their Youth STEM Initiatives and offers student and teacher membership discounts. Programs like the Biorocket Research Internship for New York City public high school students, the Teen Leadership Council promoting youth leadership in STEAM, and the Break into Biotech program for career development in the biotechnology sector further highlight Genspace’s commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, mutual learning, and skill-sharing among its members.