The Dolan DNA Learning Center (DNALC) is the world's first science center devoted entirely to genetics education. The DNALC is an operating unit of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL), a world-renowned research institution that has been home to four Nobel Prize winners.

Harlem DNA Lab draws on the DNALC's long experience in translating current biological research into hands-on learning activities and establishing teaching centers worldwide. Harlem DNA Lab makes use of instructional methods and technology developed with more than $26 million in federal and foundation grants. Since its founding in 1988, the DNALC has provided experiments for over 325,000 students from the NY metro area during field trips, in-school instruction, and DNA summer camps. More than 8,000 educators have received intensive training at DNALC workshops conducted in 42 states and several countries.

The 1,200 square foot Harlem DNA Lab occupies a former graphics arts classroom in the John S. Roberts Educational Complex (J.H.S. 45). The state-of-the-art laboratory is equipped with dissecting and compound microscopes, autoclave, incubators, centrifuges, micropipets, electrophoresis apparatuses, DNA thermal cycler, and DNA chip analyzers. The laboratory will accommodate up to 32 students for experiments ranging from basic genetics and cell biology to modern DNA manipulation and typing. Harlem DNA Lab is directly administered by the DNALC and is staffed by educators and Ph.D. biologists who have been trained to deliver an exceptional learning experience for every visitor.