Philadelphia-area Program

Be a chemist at home this summer!

GSK Science in the Summer Be a Chemist! is now offered virtually in the greater Philadelphia area. This program consists of at-home experiments where children take on the roles of four different chemists to solve real-world problems: medicinal chemist, materials chemist, water chemist, and color chemist. The program also includes introductory videos and live virtual research team meetings with Franklin Institute educators to share results from the at-home experiments. Be a Chemist! is designed for children ages 7-13, and we invite your whole family to explore together at home!

Virtual Program Details

The recommended sequence for participating in the virtual Be a Chemist! program is:

  1. Watch short introductory videos! Visit our Be a Chemist! page to watch short introductory videos that help your child(ren) set up their at-home lab space and learn about their chemistry research project.
  2. Do at-home science experiments! Follow the activity guide to explore your chemistry research project, using the science materials listed in the activity guide. Remember to follow the safety guidelines during all activities. Many of the materials can be found in your kitchen! 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How old does my child have to be to participate?

    While the program is designed for children ages 7-13, families with children of all ages are welcome to experience the program together at home. It is recommended that parents and caregivers supervise the use of science materials during Be a Chemist! experiments.

  • What does my child do to participate in the virtual program?

    The Be a Chemist! program consists of at-home activities where children take on the roles of four different chemists: medicinal chemist, materials chemist, water chemist, and color chemist. All program resources are freely accessible on the Be a Chemist! page! Watch the videos, download the activity guides, gather materials, and start your chemistry research safely at home! 

  • When is the program happening?

    The online resources are freely available on our website. Select the Be a Chemist activities you would like to do at home, gather the materials, and enjoy at your own pace!

  • Where do I find the materials needed for each activity?

    Materials are listed in each downloadable activity guide. All the guides contain links to options for purchasing the items but you may already have many of the materials at home!