May 28, 2008
Planting the Seeds of Genetics at the Academy of Natural Sciences
Anyone who’s ever complained about naturally frizzy hair or a lack of athletic ability (ahem, all of us) has only genetics to thank. (Well, that and the fact that the soccer ball seems to deliberately elude our feet.) But rather than curse out Mom and Dad for their unfavorable genes, we suggest learning a little more about the science of genetics, our how DNA can shape our identities.
Luckily, the Academy of Natural Sciences‘s summer exhibit can help us do just that. Between May 24 and September 28, stop by the ANS and explore “Gregor Mendel: Planting the Seeds of Genetics.” This multi-media, interactive exhibit tracks the life and work of Gregor Mendel, the Augustinian friar who more than 150 years ago stumbled upon the key to modern genetics while planting peas in his garden.
Check our artifacts from the Abbey of Saint Thomas, where Mendel studied, or try your hand at DNA matching. Find inspiration in the works of contemporary artists studying genetics, and learn about modern scientists following in his footsteps.
The exhibit is free with regular museum admission: $10 for adults, and $8 for children, seniors and students. Quite a small price to pay for glimpse into Mendel’s fascinating world!
Academy of the Natural Sciences
1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 299-1000
www.ansp.org
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