Ignite's Learner Program

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Ignite is a free, 8-week hybrid program for Durham-area middle school students in partnership with the Museum of Life and Science. Middle school students will meet, either virtually via Zoom or in person at the Museum of Life and Science (MLS) or Duke, with Duke University undergraduate trainers on Sundays each Spring. Students prototype solutions toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals of Clean Energy, Clean Water, or Good Health. Click here to read more about the Light, Water, and Health Teams.

This program begins with Week 1: our family Kick-Off Event. Here, students and their families will learn about these goals; how they impact our community in NC; and how Learners can use human-centered design for engineering to help solve real-world issues. Learners and one of their guests will receive free admission to the Museum of Life and Science following Week 1's meeting! 

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The program ends with Week 8: "Duke Day" a Science Fair-style Conference on Duke University's campus where Learners will display their innovations to their families, other students, guests, and a panel of professionals, including Museum and Duke faculty and staff. Learners and their guests will receive a walking tour of Duke's campus to end the event. 

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The full schedule for our Spring 2026 program is shown below.  Registration for 2026 will open this fall. Please use the link below to hear about future offerings and registration announcements.  

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