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About this project

My project is a set of DNA molecule plush dolls that magnetically-interact where they naturally hydrogen bond! 

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the most fundamental component in our biology and is composed of 4 bases: Adenine (green), Thymine (red), Guanine (black), and Cytosine (blue).  Furthermore, the bases interact with each other via hydrogen bonds (accomplished by magnets) to form base pairs.  Adenine and Thymine form a base pair via 2 bonds while Guanine and Cytosine form via 3 bonds. 

These happy bases would make great desk toys, educational tools, and gifts for current and aspiring scientists.

I’m seeking your help on Kickstarter to bring these Biochemies DNA molecule plush dolls to market.  I will use the money to manufacture the first small batch of dolls and pay for upfront costs.  If successful, I hope to expand production of these dolls and begin development of other science toys.

Rewards

For your generous pledges, you will be the first to own a set of DNA dolls!  The dolls are embroidered and about 6” x 6” x 1.5” in size each.  Dolls are not suitable for ages 3 or below.  These are prototypes and may not be the final product.

All pledges over $5 will receive a set of 4 stickers (1.5”x1.5” each), one of each DNA character.  Each set of dolls also comes with a set of 4 stickers.

For every $35 of pledging, one set of DNA plush dolls and one set of stickers will be rewarded.  U.S. shipping is included, but please pledge an extra $10 for international shipping. 

For $500 or more, I will hand-make you a biology or chemistry-related doll of your choice!  I will work with you to design the doll (about 6" x 6").  Please see samples of my hand-stitched designs: http://blog.biochemies.com/day/2011/03/04.

Biochemies

I started Biochemies.com two years ago to promote science education. It features images that convey biology and chemistry-related concepts through personification with smiley faces. I encourage the free distribution of these images under Creative Commons and hope that teachers would incorporate these images to enhance their lessons and classroom decor.  The cute smiley faces aim to make science more approachable and fun. I hope these images can help change attitudes towards science and encourage more kids to consider it as a career.

You can also check out my talk on promoting science education: http://vimeo.com/8811594

[ biochemies.com ] [ twitter ] [ facebook

Please share this project with your science-loving friends! :D

If you have any comments/suggestions/ideas, please post them to our feedback forum.

Thanks!

Thanks to all family and friends who have supported me thus far!  Special thanks to Awesome Foundation Boston chapter for helping with this Kickstarter.  Thank YOU for making this project a reality!

Video music credit: Alex Alcyone

Safety Warning:  This product contains small magnets that are secured inside the dolls and are unlikely to come loose during normal use.  Swallowing magnets can be dangerous.  Keep away from children ages 3 and below.

FAQ

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857
Backers
$33,706
pledged of $8,000 goal
0
seconds to go

Funding Successful

This project successfully raised its funding goal on January 6.

Pledge $1 or more Pledge $1 or more

35 Backers

Your name and link on Biochemies website.

Estimated Delivery: Jan 2012

Pledge $5 or more Pledge $5 or more

58 Backers

1 set of 4 DNA stickers, your name and link on Biochemies website.

Estimated Delivery: Mar 2012

Pledge $35 or more Pledge $35 or more

658 Backers

1 set of 4 DNA plush dolls, 1 set of 4 DNA stickers, your name and link on Biochemies website (please +$10 if international shipping)

Estimated Delivery: Mar 2012

Pledge $70 or more Pledge $70 or more

91 Backers

2 sets of 4 DNA plush dolls, 2 sets of 4 DNA stickers, Your name and link on Biochemies website (please +$20 if international shipping). For every multiple of $35, a set of dolls and stickers will be added.

Estimated Delivery: Mar 2012

Pledge $500 or more Pledge $500 or more

3 Backers

One custom hand-made molecule or lab-related doll of your choice! 5 sets of 4 DNA plush dolls, 5 sets of 4 DNA stickers, your name and link on Biochemies website under "Platinum Donor" section.

Estimated Delivery: May 2012

Project By

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Jun Axup is a PhD candidate in chemical biology in San Diego, CA. Her thesis work involves developing targeted cancer drugs. She is a strong advocate of science education and changing cultural attitudes towards science. Her other interests include technology, web design, mobile, DIY, and quantified self.

  1. jun.axup.org
  2. twitter.com
  3. about.me

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