DNA Forensics Workshop for Teens: Identify Bird Sex at Nagoya Science Museum

A "DNA Forensics Workshop: Identify Bird Sex!" is being held for junior high and high school students at the Nagoya City Science Museum in Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya. This workshop invites participants to extract DNA from bird feathers and determine the bird's sex using PCR and gel electrophoresis. Participants will learn basic life science laboratory techniques with portable genetic analysis equipment, aiming to deepen their scientific thinking skills and understanding of biodiversity.

While participants are encouraged to bring feathers from their own pet birds, the museum will provide feathers if needed, making the event accessible to all interested students. This is a two-day consecutive workshop, and participants must be available for both sessions. The first day is scheduled for Sunday, October 18th in the afternoon, and the second day will take place on Sunday, October 25th, lasting most of the day. The workshop will be led by instructors from the NPO Rare Animal Conservation Science Research Center and Chubu University, offering expert insights in an understandable manner.

The participation fee is 1,100 yen (covering materials and insurance). High school students and above will also need to pay the museum's standard admission fee. However, on October 18th, the permanent exhibition will be free to the public due to the Nagoya Festival. Applications are processed through the Nagoya City Electronic Application Service, and participants will be selected by lottery if the number of applicants exceeds the capacity. The application deadline is Monday, September 28th, so interested students are advised to apply early.

The workshop will be conducted indoors at the Nagoya City Science Museum's Life Science Center, on the 6th floor. Participants should bring the participation fee, their confirmation email, writing utensils, and ideally, about three frozen pet bird feathers. This is a unique opportunity for junior high and high school students to engage with DNA analysis and foster an interest in life sciences.

Event Details

• Event Title: DNA Forensics Workshop: Identify Bird Sex!
• Venue: Nagoya City Science Museum, Life Science Center, 6th Floor, Lab 1
• Address: 2-17-1 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture
• Dates: October 18, 2026 (Sun) - October 25, 2026 (Sun)
• Time: Day 1: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (Reception 1:30 PM~); Day 2: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Reception 9:30 AM~)
• Target Audience: Junior high and high school students
• Capacity: 16 participants (lottery)
• Fee: 1,100 yen (materials, insurance). Additional admission fee required for high school students and above (permanent exhibition free on Oct 18).
• Application Deadline: September 28, 2026 (Mon)
• What to Bring: Participation fee, confirmation email, writing utensils, approx. 3 frozen pet bird feathers (if available)

Access

• Nearest Stations: JR Nagoya Station / Subway Sakae Station
• Venue Address: 2-17-1 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture

For application details and further information, please check the Nagoya City Electronic Application Service. Confirmation of selection or rejection will be sent via email within one week after the deadline.