Molecule Maker Camp

Camp is FULL for Summer 2025.
Application is OPEN for Summer 2025. Register Now.
Application is CLOSED for Summer 2025.
This is an INVITE-ONLY camp.
Application is TBA for Summer 2025. Check back soon.

Age Group: 10th - 12th

Cost

  • Residential: $1,000
  • Commuter: $600
  • Virtual:
  • Day Camp:

Category: 3-D Sessions

Dates:

  • July 20 - 26

Residence Hall:

Scholarships: Yes, see details No

This is a Broadening Participation in STEM initiative. Camps focus on support and empowerment of traditionally excluded populations in STEM including (but not limited to) the areas of socio-economic status, gender, 1st generation college, race, ethnicity, rural schools, and ability. All are welcome to apply.

Campers working on Molecule Maker activities
Campers working on Molecule Maker activities

Ever wondered about the tiny building blocks that make up everything around us? Welcome to the Molecule Maker Lab Institute –where chemistry and computer science collide to create amazing things! At MMLI, we use the power of AI and robots to make groundbreaking molecules. Think medicines, eco-friendly materials, and even better organic solar cells that can power the world without harming our planet. And guess what? You can join the molecule-making fun too! During the Molecule Maker Camp experience you'll explore:

  • What are molecules, anyway?
  • How can we make them do what we want?
  • How do we make molecules even better?

Get ready for some experiences like:

  • Making your own organic solar cells - make decisions just like MMLI researchers do!
  • Touring THE Molecule Maker Lab with its high-tech robots!
  • Learning how to make your own virtual molecule on our Digital Molecule Maker.
  • Checking out the Illinois Biological Foundry and seeing how automation speeds up research tasks!
  • Visiting the Beckman Institute and Siebel Center for Design.
  • Meeting and working with real MMLI researchers!
  • Conquering the Escape Lab217 – our brand new MMLI escape room!

If you're ready to dive into the world of molecules, creativity, and problem-solving, join us at Molecule Maker Camp!

Testimonial

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“Bringing in experts from other science/engineering fields was very enlightening” – 2024 MM Camper

Staff

Shelley Wagner earned her Masters in Special Education and Bachelor of Science Education at Illinois State University. She currently coordinates the Education Outreach Program for the Molecular Maker Lab Institute (MMLI) and oversees various initiatives within the MMLI including outreach, mentorship and service-learning program. Prior to joining MMLI, she spent 14 years teaching high school physical science classes.

Frequently Asked Questions