The Mobile Science Laboratory Program allows the technology and expertise of the Greenwood Genetic Center to come directly to your school.
In 2010, with the support of a grant from the National Human Genome Research Institute, GGC acquired the Gene Machine, a 41 foot custom coach equipped as a mobile science laboratory. The Gene Machine is equipped with microcentrifuges, thermocyclers, gel electrophoresis apparatus, micropipettes, vortexes, water baths, magnetic heaters and electronic balances. It can accommodate up to 24 students at a time and includes safety equipment and an ADA-approved automatic wheelchair lift.
In 2017, with funding from the SC Educational Oversight Committee, we added a cargo van, the Helix Express, to our growing fleet. The Helix Express allows our instructors to transport lab equipment into the classroom to accommodate larger class sizes and expand our reach to serve more students.
Both vehicles allow students to engage in fun, entertaining and educational scenarios where they have the opportunity to learn about genetic traits and disorders, understand the lab techniques used in making a diagnosis as well as consider the ethical implications of testing and explore careers in the life sciences. Teachers can select from multiple lab activities including basic lab skills and genetic modules. Each of the modules addresses STEM initiatives and South Carolina Science Standards. The Gene Machine and Helix Express are available to visit middle and high schools across South Carolina at no charge to the school.
View our Calendar
Modules and Forms
Schedule A Visit
This year we have a new option to request a visit from the Gene Machine or Helix Express electronically. Paper forms are also available if you prefer. Please do not submit both.
Summer Internships
The Greenwood Genetic Center offers six internship positions each summer for qualifying college students. Each internship lasts 8-10 weeks and includes a stipend of $2,000. Housing is not provided.
Internships are available in several areas of genetics including diagnostic testing, research, bioinformatics, and genetic counseling. All applications will be considered; however, preference is given to rising college juniors and seniors. GGC faculty members will directly contact potential candidates to arrange interviews.
GGC Diversity Stipend
Additional funding is available for one student from an underrepresented or underprivileged background to assist with travel or housing costs during the summer.
Students who wish to be considered for this additional funding should submit a separate brief statement addressing their qualifications which include, but are not limited to, ethnic or racial minorities, first in the family to attend college, those with a disability, those raised in a rural area, those from a low-income home, etc.
Application process:
- Consider your preferred area of interest (diagnostic lab, research lab, bioinformatics or genetic counseling). You may also select a second choice area of interest.
- Identify two individuals to serve as references. These should be professors, work supervisors, etc. who are not related to you.
- Complete the application form.
- Attach a cover letter of introductory information and your area(s) of interest.
- Attach a brief resume that includes work experiences and completed coursework.
- If you wish to be considered for the GGC Diversity Stipend, please also attach a separate statement of qualification in the ‘Additional Documents’ section of the form.
The deadline to be considered for summer internships is December 31.
High School Shadowing
High school students are encouraged to apply for GGC’s one-day shadowing program on the Greenwood campus. Participation in the program will expose the student to the many opportunities and benefits of working the field of genetics. High school students will not be allowed to attend clinics or observe clinical encounters.
All shadow students should dress professionally. No shorts, jeans, t-shirts, short skirts, or open-toe shoes are permitted.
Contact Leta M. Tribble, PhD at (864) 943-4170 or [email protected] to schedule a shadowing opportunity.
The best way to understand what happens at the Greenwood Genetic Center is to come for a visit!
Our Genetic Education Center welcomes students and other groups throughout the year for an interactive hands-on experience. Groups will learn how GGC operates and the types of activities we are involved in from research studies to clinical care to the latest in diagnostic testing. Student groups have the opportunity to engage in genetic analysis and testing in our student lab, learn about various topics from our faculty, as well as take a tour of GGC’s Diagnostic Laboratories.
At the Genetic Education Center, students can engage in fun, entertaining and educational scenarios where they have the opportunity to learn about genetic traits and disorders, understand the lab techniques used in making a diagnosis as well as consider the ethical implications of testing and explore careers in the life sciences. Teachers can select from multiple lab activities including basic lab skills and genetic modules. Each of the modules addresses STEM initiatives and South Carolina Science Standards. There is no charge to visit.
To learn more, contact our Division of Education at (864) 943-4170 or (864) 388-1711 or [email protected].
View our calendar
Modules and Forms
Schedule a Visit
This year we have a new option to request a visit to the Genetic Education Center electronically. Paper forms are also available if you prefer. Please do not submit both.
The Greenwood Genetic Center’s Junior Genetics Scholars Camp provides a unique opportunity for middle and high school students to gain first-hand exposure to the field of genetics straight from the experts. The week includes learning about the latest technologies, engaging in hands-on lab activities, and exploring careers in the field of genetics.
Registration is now open!
Middle School Camp (rising 6th-8th graders)
“Genetics in Pop Culture”
Explore genetics in sports, food, animals and humans
June 10-13, 2024
8:30am – 12:30pm
Greenwood Genetic Center Campus
125 Gregor Mendel Circle, Greenwood, SC
$100
Registration deadline is May 24 (or when camp fills)
Middle School Camp Registration
High School Camp (rising 9th-12th graders)
“The Wild World of Environmental Genetics”
Explore environmental genetics, population genetics, animal genetics, and epigenetics
June 17-20, 2024
8:30am – 2:00pm
Greenwood Genetic Center Campus
125 Gregor Mendel Circle, Greenwood, SC
$175 (lunch is included)
Registration deadline is May 31 (or when camp fills)
High School Camp Registration
The future of medical genetics relies on enthusiastic and well-educated scientists. Greenwood Genetic Center’s Division of Education takes seriously the obligation of supporting that future by offering training and educational opportunities to middle school, high school and college students as well as healthcare professionals.
The Division of Education provides outreach educational programs including a Speaker’s Bureau and mobile science labs, as well as resources, courses, and workshops for teachers, and training for postgraduate students and healthcare providers.
The Helix Express is a newer addition to the outreach program. Purchased through funds from the SC Education Oversight Committee, the Helix Express is a cargo van that allows instructors to transport lab equipment into the classroom to accommodate more schools and classes that exceed the capacity of the Gene Machine.
Contact Dr. Leta Tribble at (864) 943-4170 or send email for more information on how GGC can serve you or your students.
GGC’s Outreach Educational program has completed another amazing year thanks to the wonderful teachers, students, and supporters. You can see our latest update here.
