Summer STEM camps

GEMS
Gains in the Education of Mathematics and Science

Grades 4-12

GEMS is an U.S. Army-sponsored, summer STEM day camp for rising 4th to 12th grade students. Spend a week doing hands-on experiments in a working U.S. Army research lab or engineering center, or virtually from home.

All in-person camps
In-person camp

Maryland — Silver Spring — WRAIR

The GEMS program at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) offers students an exciting and innovative platform to engage in hands-on STEM activities specifically designed to stimulate inquiry-based thinking, scientific skills, and interest in STEM careers. Rising 7th through 12th grade students explore STEM in a sophisticated laboratory setting and learn about STEM careers under the guidance of college-level mentors called Near-Peer Mentors (NPMs).

Camps at this location

WRAIR hosts various GEMS camps at three different locations around Silver Spring. Students can only apply to one location and for only one session (week).

WRAIR: 503 Robert Grant Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20910 ↗

Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced options

University of Maryland (UMD): 7901 Regents Drive, College Park, MD ↗

GEMS Program Offered at UMD is specifically for students registered in UMD's Talent Search program. Intermediate and Advanced options

How to Apply

Student applications are completed in the online platform Ideal-Logic. Applications for 2027 GEMS will open soon and remain open until April 30, 2027. Application requirements differ depending on site.

Volunteer and work with us

About WRAIR

Headquartered in Silver Spring, Maryland, the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) is the oldest and most mission diverse biomedical research laboratory in the Department of War.

WRAIR’s mission: Discover, design, develop and deliver globally impactful solutions for military-relevant infectious diseases, brain health and performance optimization through innovative research.

Some of the sophisticated research conducted at WRAIR is adapted and incorporated in the coursework for GEMS students.

Our Partners

Montgomery College logo
Montgomery CollegeTakoma Park, MD
University of Maryland logo
University of MarylandCollege Park, MD
At a glance
Site
Silver Spring, MD
Education Level
7–12
Cost
Free
Season
Summerweek-long sessions
Format
In person
Applications due
April 30, 2027
Contact Us

Still have questions?

Get in touch with the WRAIR GEMS office. We'd love to hear from you!

WRAIR GEMS Office301-319-7129

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Ready to Get hands-on?

Spend a week doing real experiments with real scientists and engineers.

Step into an Army Lab near you or bring science into your home.