Raising the next generation of Renaissance thinkers
STEM Experiences at The Brain Observatory
The Brain Observatory offers immersive science experiences for students of all ages. Our programs blend neuroscience, creativity, and wellness to inspire the next generation of thinkers and explorers. Each experience is designed to complement classroom learning while providing hands-on engagement with real research, data, and real brains!
Recommended Age Groups
🧸 Elementary (Grades 3-5)
🕹️ Middle School (Grades 6–8)
🎓 High School & College (Grades 9+ and undergraduate)
🧸🕹️🎓 The Brain Observatory Field Trip
Grades 4–12 | 4 hours | Instructional days
This immersive field trip brings neuroscience to life through hands-on exploration of real human brains, neuroimaging technology, and data visualization. Students rotate through four structured sessions covering cognitive science, brain dissection, MRI and CT interpretation, and brain-inspired art. Hosted in our downtown teaching lab and gallery, the experience integrates Next Gen Science Standards with engaging, age-appropriate content. Students practice lab safety, learn research ethics, and explore real-world career pathways.
🧸🕹️ The Brain Observatory Jr.
Grades 4–8 | 30 sessions | 2 hours/weekly
The Brain Observatory Jr. is a flexible, weekly program that brings neuroscience, mental health, and socio-emotional learning into your school. Students explore the brain through games, creative projects, and interactive tools like EEG headsets for real-time neurofeedback. Topics include brain anatomy, focus and stress, and emotional regulation. Each student creates a personal project to showcase at year’s end. Ideal for SEL and STEM alignment.
🎓🕹️ Lab Week
Ages 9–12 | 5-day format | Available during summer or winter breaks
Lab Week is a 5-day immersive program that invites students to explore the inner workings of the brain through science, art, and movement. Designed for independent middle school learners, the experience combines hands-on neuroscience with playful activities that promote focus, emotional awareness, and curiosity. Students investigate how the brain influences behavior, memory, sleep, and creativity — and how they can take care of their own minds and bodies.
🎓 Research Internships
High school and college students | Custom schedules
Our internship program offers students direct access to research in neuroscience and cell biology. Interns may work with Dr. Jacopo Annese on brain digitization and imaging, or with Dr. Katarzyna Brzezicka on immunology and nanomedicine. Projects support capstone work, independent study, or pre-med prep. Students gain experience in lab techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication.
For pricing and scheduling information, please contact us through the form below
Scroll down to learn about our professional development programs.
The Brain Observatory for Teachers
Professional Learning and Curriculum Support for K–12 Educators
The Brain Observatory for Teachers is a professional development program designed to help educators bring accurate, engaging neuroscience into the classroom. Led by cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Jacopo Annese, the experience combines scientific insight with hands-on support to strengthen both content knowledge and curriculum design.
In addition to exploring how the brain learns, regulates emotion, and responds to stress, educators receive guidance in curating their own teaching materials. Participants are invited to submit lessons, slides, or visual aids for scientific review and design feedback — ensuring their content is cohesive, up-to-date, and age-appropriate.
Educators leave with new knowledge, refined materials, and a deeper understanding of how neuroscience can support student learning and well-being.
Program formats:
1-Day Intensive (concepts + curriculum clinic)
3-Day Institute (labs, co-design, and instructional strategy sessions)
CEUs available in partnership with SDCOE
Custom sessions available for schools and districts
Professional Development, Curriculum Support, and Consultation Request
Do you teach about the brain? Want to make sure your content is accurate, engaging, and scientifically grounded?
This form is for K–12 educators seeking support from The Brain Observatory, including lesson plan review, curriculum consultation, visual curation, and access to professional learning opportunities.
We’re here to help you bring neuroscience into the classroom with confidence.