About Us
The Meharry DNA Learning Center is a regional hub for genomics education, community engagement, and inclusive science—located on the historic campus of Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee. We are proud to be the first DNALC in the Southeastern U.S. and the first based at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). As part of the international DNA Learning Center network led by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, we bring hands-on molecular biology and genetics learning to students, teachers, and community members—helping to ensure that all voices are represented in the future of science.
Reserve a trip for students to experience hands-on labs in one of our state-of-the-art laboratory classrooms. DNALC educators and Ph.D. biologists are trained to deliver an exceptional learning experience to every visitor.
Our Home at Meharry
Founded in 1876, Meharry Medical College is one of the nation’s oldest and most distinguished historically Black academic health science centers. The DNA Learning Center builds on Meharry’s enduring mission to serve the underserved by preparing future scientists, clinicians, and community leaders to drive innovation and equity in biomedical science.
Mission
The Meharry Medical College DNA Learning Center inspires a love of science through hands-on genetics education for all students, while intentionally expanding access for those historically underrepresented in STEM. As the first DNALC based at an HBCU, we cultivate curiosity, confidence, and belonging—helping students imagine futures in science, while supporting educators with professional development and engaging communities through inclusive, science-centered experiences.
Vision
Our vision is to inspire every student to see themselves in science by creating transformative learning experiences that spark curiosity, build confidence, and open pathways to future opportunity.
Advancing Equity Through Genomics
Our work is grounded in partnership with the Together for Change initiative, a national collaboration supported by Regeneron, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, and the Diaspora Human Genomics Initiative (DHGI). Together for Change supports the establishment of DNALCs in historically excluded communities, building new educational pipelines that center equity, inclusion, and access.
The Diaspora Human Genomics Institute (DHGI) was established with the mission to improve the quality of the human condition and its environment, with a particular focus on persons of African ancestry. Chartered by Meharry Medical College as a Tennessee nonprofit, the DHGI is the governing body for the Together for CHANGE initiative.