Introduction: Annual DNA Day Essay Contest is hosted by the American Society of Human Genetics, in support of National DNA Day. DNA Day commemorates the completion of the Human Genome Project in April 2003 and the discovery of the double helix of DNA in 1953. In celebration of DNA Day, the American Society of Human Genetics hosts Annual DNA Day Essay Contest.
2024 Question:
Many human diseases have a genetic component. Some diseases result from a change in a single gene or even multiple genes. Yet, many diseases are complex and stem from an interaction between genes and the environment. Environmental factors may include chemicals in the air or water, nutrition, microbes, ultraviolet radiation from the sun and social context. Provide an example of how the interplay of genetics and environment can shape human health.
Submission Rule: Essays must be in English and no more than 750 words. Word count includes in-text citations, but not reference lists. Essays are expected to be well-reasoned arguments that indicate a deep understanding of scientific concepts related to the essay question.
Prizes:
1st Place Winner: $1,000 for student
$1,000 genetics materials grant
2nd Place Winner: $600 for student
$600 genetics materials grant
3rd Place Winner: $400 for student
$400 genetics materials grant
Competition Website: See general information about the organization and the Annual DNA Day Essay Contest. Read the winning essay from 2021 and 2022. For other competitions, go to Aralia’s Competition List.
Eligibility
Open to students in grades 9-12 worldwide. Parents may submit essays if the student is home schooled.
Submission deadline
March 6, 2024
