Science Night with the Roper Lab

Connecting the Down Syndrome Community with Research

Science Night is an annual outreach event hosted by the Roper Lab in partnership with Down Syndrome Indiana to connect with the local Down syndrome community and increase awareness of scientific research. As part of its commitment to community engagement, the lab helps demonstrate how basic, translational and clinical research work together toward a shared goal: improving the lives of individuals with Down syndrome.

To expand the event's impact and foster collaboration, the Roper Lab has partnered with other researchers whose work benefits the Down syndrome community. Featured participants have included Dr. Rachel Swinford, co-director of adapted dance programs for individuals with Down syndrome, and Dr. Christina Santamaría Graff, whose "Family as Faculty!" approach supports Latinx immigrant families of children with disabilities, including Down syndrome.

a person with down syndrome wearing a lab coat and gloves

a person with down syndrome works on a lab experiement

What participants experience

A mini-lecture introducing scientific research and the work of participating laboratories
Strawberry DNA extraction experiments
DNA structure modeling using pipe cleaners and beads
"Make-a-Mouse," an interactive activity that simulates meiosis and fertilization using paper chromosomes
Opportunities to learn about ongoing Down syndrome research
A question-and-answer session where individuals with Down syndrome and their caregivers can engage directly with researchers

Science Night is designed to mirror a first-year biology laboratory experience, providing participants with an engaging and accessible introduction to scientific research and genetics.

Making Research More Accessible to Families

Through hands-on activities and meaningful interactions with researchers, Science Night helps families better understand Down syndrome research and the important role scientific discovery plays in improving health and quality of life.

Community Impact

Science Night has received strong support and positive feedback from Down Syndrome Indiana. The event has attracted both new and returning participants, demonstrating sustained community interest and engagement.

Attendees consistently report enjoying the activities and learning more about genetics, biology and ongoing research. Caregivers have shared that the event introduced them to research efforts they were previously unaware of and helped them gain a greater appreciation for the importance of Down syndrome research.

Looking Ahead

The Roper Lab plans to continue hosting Science Night annually during Down Syndrome Awareness Month each March. In addition to this event, the lab participates in the Indianapolis Down Syndrome Buddy Walk each year as part of its ongoing commitment to community engagement.

Future outreach efforts include hosting a science activity in the Buddy Walk Kids Tent and providing educational resources about Down syndrome research. These activities will further strengthen connections between researchers, individuals with Down syndrome and their families, and the broader community while helping raise awareness of research opportunities and advances.

two graduate students work on a lab project with a person with down syndrome