Skip to main content

Allen Institute
Field Trips

Organize a field trip to the Allen Institute

Applications now open for the 2025/2026 school year**

  • Fall
    September – December
    Decision Date: August 1st
    Due Date
    JUL
    15
  • Spring
    January – May
    Decision Date: November 1st
    Due Date
    OCT
    15
  • Summer
    June – August
    Decision Date: May 1st
    Due Date
    APR
    15

Field Trip Details: 

Tour Length

Field trips are typically 2.5 – 3.5 hours, with some flexibility based on the group’s needs.

Group Size

We can accommodate a minimum group size of 12 and maximum of 32.

Application Timeline

Applications are accepted for various windows during the school year.

Transportation

Your group is responsible for organizing transportation, but we offer up to $250 reimbursement for costs.

Dress Code

Long pants and fully enclosed closed-toed shoes are required to enter Allen Institute laboratories. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Accessibility

We can accommodate visual, auditory, and mobility needs; please let us know of any requests on your application. 

Lunch Facilities

We do not provide a setting for group lunches. Please plan for your group to eat lunch off-site. We’re happy to provide recommendations in the neighborhood.

Hands-on Activities

Grades 9-12
Cell Biology
Neuroscience

RNA and Alzheimer’s Disease 

In this lab, students learn how scientists at the Allen Institute study RNA in order to better understand Alzheimer’s Disease. Students walk through a hands-on lab protocol where they are able to watch the steps of protein synthesis take place in real time through observing fluorescent samples. The lesson concludes with a dry lab activity where students compare the gene expression of neurons from brain donors with and without Alzheimer’s Disease.
 
This activity includes a protocol developed by miniPCRbio.
  • 3 hours 15 minutes