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What is a Virus, Anyway?

Launched in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we hope these resources provide useful information and context on viruses in general and SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) in particular.
photo credit: NIH NIAID-RML

What are they? How do they work? What happens to them when they infect us? How do scientists study viruses? And more…

Read, tinker, and explore viruses through this collection of resources developed for various ages and learning environments (including at home, as this is being launched during the area of social distancing/isolation). New components will continue to be added, so check back frequently, or ask your questions in our comments 👇 or on our social media 👉and we’ll do our best to answer them.

Choose a Level

Take a closer look at some resources for you to know, show, and explore more about viruses

At a glance

Topics

  • Life Science,
  • Diversity of Organisms,
  • Evolution,
  • Genetics,
  • Scientific Process & Ethics,
  • Art in STEM,
  • History of Science,
  • Science & Society,
  • Scientific Methodology,
  • Statistics & Math

Materials Required

  • Everyday Materials

Created by

Disan Davis

Disan is a scientist and educator striving to share her curiosity and love of science with others
Research Associate for the STEM PUSH Network
University of Pittsburgh

Jeanne Garbarino Jeanne Garbarino avatar

Jeanne was once rescued by the FDNY after getting her head stuck in a fence. She then grew up to become a biochemist.
Executive Director, RockEDU Science Outreach
The Rockefeller University

Caryn Hale Caryn Hale avatar

Caryn is molecular biologist with an unhealthy obsession with RNA and makes her science real through her teaching
Research Associate, Darnell Laboratory
The Rockefeller University

Caitlin Gilbert Caitlin Gilbert avatar

Rockefeller Graduate Fellow

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