The University of California San Diego MRSEC Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) program is aimed at providing K-12 and junior/community college educators with a summer experience in a MRSEC research lab. The participants are attached to one of the MRSEC RIMSE Summer Schools, where they receive an introduction to research in the materials science focus area of that particular RIMSE. As part of the experience, the RET participants will work on projects and modules that they can translate to the classroom at their institution. Our team of education experts in the RIMSE program will provide guidance on developing materials science content, demonstrations, and course materials that dovetail with the current California Science Education Standards.
NSF-RET MRSEC trainees will be: 1) exposed to the grand challenges in the field of materials science; 2) trained in computational, nanotechnological, and /or biological methods aimed at making new materials; 3) provided mentoring and academic/professional development opportunities, including the potential to produce publishable research and participate in professional conferences.
Duration: June 23 - Aug. 15, 2025 (8 weeks). Trainees will have the option to extend their paid laboratory research participation by up to 2 weeks (10 weeks total).
Programming: Extensive training and mentoring in cutting-edge materials science research is accompanied by weekly research seminars, industrial field trips, professional development workshops (safety and research ethics, science communication, information literacy, graduate school preparation), and networking/recreation. RET trainees will assist with development of one or more of the MRSEC materials science educational modules.
Expectations: Full-time commitment to extensive lab work and engagement in program activities.
Support: $900/week stipend (stipend includes allowance for meals). The program additionally provides on-campus housing and reimbursement of travel expenses up to $500.
Eligibility Requirements
This research program is open to K-12 and junior/community college educators with programmatic focus on STEM who are citizens or permanent residents of the US or US territories, as stipulated by the NSF. Note: No prior research experience is necessary.
All eligible teachers are encouraged to apply. The UC San Diego MRSEC does not consider race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and/or other protected categories as part of the application and selection process of any programs or initiatives.