iBIO Launches 10th Annual STEMgirls Summer Camp: Campers Become Scientific Detectives in “Case Breakers”

iBIO Launches 10th Annual STEMgirls Summer Camp: Campers Become Scientific Detectives in "Case Breakers"

by John Conrad | Jun 22, 2026 | iBIO News, Uncategorized

Milestone anniversary camp challenges girls to solve mysteries using forensic science, epidemiology, and engineering

The Illinois Biotechnology Innovation Organization (iBIO) today kicks off its 10th annual STEMgirls Summer Camp, welcoming 125 young scientists to Cristo Rey St. Martin College Preparatory High School for a week of detective-themed STEM exploration. This milestone anniversary program, "Case Breakers," invites girls in grades 3 through 8 to channel their inner scientists as they investigate a mysterious outbreak, a puzzling crime scene, and a security breach.

Scientists and engineers work together every day to design systems and technologies that identify the source of a problem - whether the culprit is a microorganism, a security failure, or foul play. This summer, campers will experience that process firsthand, learning forensic techniques, testing epidemiological diagnostics, and engineering security devices. Through inquiry-based exploration, campers will tackle problems with multiple layers of complexity, just as real-world scientists do.

"Solving mysteries is fascinating to humans of all ages," said Ann Vogel, Senior Vice President at iBIO. "When girls step into the role of scientific detective, they experience firsthand how science and technology work together to connect the dots. That's not just a STEM skill - that's a life skill."

What sets STEMgirls Camp apart is its combination of hands-on learning with real-world industry exposure. Campers will step inside Abbott's mobile diagnostics demonstration semi-trailer, the "Transformation Tour," for an interactive journey through medical innovation. In addition, Abbott's lead sponsorship enables each participant to take home an iBIO STEM Kit featuring chromatography activities introduced during camp.

John Frels, vice president of research and development in Abbott's core diagnostics business remarked "Abbott is proud to have been a part of STEMgirls from the very beginning. Over the past ten years, I'vewatched this program grow into something that truly moves the needle - inspiring thousands of young women to see themselves as scientists, engineers, and innovators. What's especially gratifying is seeing STEMgirls alumnae return on Family Day to share their stories and inspire the next generation - proof that the impact of STEMgirls extends far beyond a single summer. Our ongoing collaboration with iBIO reflects our deep commitment to building a stronger, more diverse STEM workforce, and we look forward to another decade of impact."

The program culminates on Friday, June 26, with a special Family Day and STEM Careers Event. This year's celebration will feature industry partners alongside a milestone addition: the debut of STEMgirls Heroes - alumni of the program who are now out in the world making a difference in STEM fields. Their stories reflect the long-term impact of the program as it marks its 10th anniversary.

Abbott returns as lead sponsor for the 10th anniversary program. Additional financial support is provided by the Steans Family Foundation and TerSera.