Explore the world of Smithsonian scientists with educators from the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. Learn about biodiversity through hands-on activities reflecting real research practices. Limited to 12 Teens and they must be accompanied by an adult.

June 28^th, Marine Biology: You’ll be collecting data, examining a variety of biodiversity in the Rhode River, and able to participate in oyster dissection.

July 12^th, Bat Biology: Learn about bats in Maryland, echolocation, and their importance in food webs with a Smithsonian Scientist.

July 26^th, River Otter Biology: Learn all about river otters and discover what their presence means for the Chesapeake Bay. You'll explore their role in the food web using microscopes, otter scat, and trail cameras.

August 9^th, Marsh Ecology: You’ll get to study marsh ecosystems with the same types of equipment and methods that our scientists use, from soil horizons and measuring marsh grass to identifying plant species.

Learn more about SERC Education

Directions to SERC