To educate a genetically literate public is one of the goals of Ecole de l'ADN (DNA learning centre). This clearing house for information in the life sciences educates people who want to become initiated in biotechnology. To that aim, Ecole de l'ADN proposes a large range of hands-on experiments which use several methods in molecular biology. Since its opening in November 1998, it trained about 30,000 people.

Most of the trainees are undergraduate students. The teaching, based on hands-on experiments, combines methods with techniques and fits the objectives and syllabus of the life sciences till undergraduate level. Moreover, by using real biotechnology processes, the pupils will be encouraged to develop their practical skills and persue scientific studies.

Based on these workshops, Ecole de l'ADN develops educational kits for class practical works. These kits are distributed under the registered trade mark DNA Tools. The DNA Tools educational kits are being developed to reinforce secondary and higher education programmes in the life sciences. They enable pupils or students to try out experiments with precision and skill. The practical method fits in with the scientific approach to problem-solving. The kits comply with health and safety regulations.

Furthermore Ecole de l'ADN develops training courses in continuing education toward professionals coming from various sectors (chemistry, health, IT, law, media... ). To be educated in the life sciences is not a pre-requisite.

Located in Nîmes, Ecole de l'ADN is creating a French-speaking network by allowing and supporting the founding of others école de l'ADN: Grenoble opened in 2002, Marseilles in 2003, Angers in 2004. Saint-Denis-de-la-Réunion, Evry-Généthon opened at the autumn of 2005; Baie-Comeau (Québec) and Poitiers start at the beginning of 2006, Dunkerque in 2007.

Ecole de l'ADN is supported by the French ministry of Research and the local authorities: the Languedoc-Roussillon region, the City of Nîmes, Nîmes Metropolis and the General Council of the Gard.

Special thanks to Tony Richards for translating a part of this website.