BioCamp is a STEM day-camp for middle school students (ages 10-14). The curriculum is designed as an enjoyable, fun, and hands-on introduction to inquiry-based learning and the scientific method. Campers can explore three important fields of life science – Microbiology, Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB), and Neuroscience. Biocamp Instructors are scientists involved in active research.
Microbiology is the study of living creatures our eyes cannot see (not without tools anyway!).
Molecular and Cellular Biology: Cellular biology looks at cells and molecular biology looks at what’s happening inside the cells, at the tiniest level possible. Campers will learn about how these fields help us understand how our bodies work and find cures for diseases!
Neuroscience deals with the brain and everything related to senses!
Note: MCB and Neuroscience are both weeklong modules while the Microbiology module is two weeks long. You can enroll your child in one or more of the three modules.
Camp Highlights
Give your child the summer of discovery!
BioCamp is designed to foster a summer of fun and learning!
Science is the bedrock of progress. Science improves lives. Above all, science is fun.
At MCB BioCamp, we nurture young minds by encouraging and promoting curiosity, while at the same time developing the framework, rigor, and discipline required in science.
Campers will learn from scientists and engage in hands-on activities that are fun and collaborative. All the activities are designed by scientists to be accessible to kids aged 10-14. There is no prior preparation required to attend BioCamp.
Dates, location, and fees
Harvard’s Northwest Building (52 Oxford Street, Cambridge, MA 02138)
July, 2026
July 6-17, 2026 Microbiology (2 weeks) 2000 USD
July 20-24, 2026 Molecular and Cellular Biology (1 week) 1000 USD
July 27-31, 2026 Neuroscience (1 week) 1000 USD
August, 2026
Aug 3-14, 2026 Microbiology (2 weeks) 2000 USD
Aug 17-21, 2026 Molecular and Cellular Biology (1 week) 1000 USD
Aug 24-28, 2026 Neuroscience (1 week) 1000 USD
Note: For optimal learning, we recommend enrolling in all three modules, but you have the freedom to enroll in as many as you like. Each module is a standalone unit. The three-module series will be repeated once in the summer. You may choose to enroll in both series, but priority will be given to ensure maximum applicants go through at least one module.
Drop-off time is 8:30 a.m., and pick-up time is 5:30 p.m
Registration
Registration opens January 15., 2026.
Please check this space for registration link.
Contact Us
Please email us with any questions: mcb_biocamp@fas.harvard.edu
Camp Directors
Dr. Dominic Mao and Dr. Polina Kehayova
BioCamp is led by founders and directors Polina Kehayova and Dominic Mao. As both parents and passionate educators, Polina and Dominic were inspired by their own children to create a camp with a focus on curiosity, creativity, and discovery. Both are seasoned scientists and deeply committed to hands-on, inquiry-based learning, blending their professional backgrounds in science with their enthusiasm for teaching.
Polina and Dominic believe that summer camp should be a place where every child feels empowered to explore, experiment, and have fun. As parents, they understand the importance of providing a safe, nurturing, and dynamic environment; as educators and scientists, they bring a wealth of experience in making complex ideas accessible and exciting for kids of all ages.
With their unique combination of scientific expertise and parental insight, Polina and Dominic have crafted a summer experience designed to inspire the next generation of thinkers, problem-solvers, and life-long learners.
Dominic is MCB’s Assistant Director of Undergraduate Studies and Polina is MCB’s Scientific Director.