Research Experience for Teachers (RET)

The Research Experience for Teachers (RET) program introduces K-12 public school teachers of science, math, and technology to Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) research scientists and engineers at Harvard University to develop connections with public schools.

Teachers participate in educational and technical research in nanoscale, bio, and materials science and engineering as part of the scientific research community. Participants will have the benefit of significant collaboration within the MRSEC science education community, and faculty in the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences at Harvard.

The 6–8 week RET program joins K-12 educators and the research community, enhances the quality of pre-college education, and results in the production of classroom-tested instructional materials. There are two National Science Foundation-funded programs where teachers will work closely with faculty, staff, students, and each other to develop educational modules based on their exposure to research throughout the summer. While all teacher participants share common meeting and training activities, each funding source has a distinct focus.

Harvard based Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC)

  • Bring materials research science and engineering concepts to classroom
  • Teachers from middle school to community college level can apply
  • Teachers may return for a second summer to refine module
  • Opportunities to participate in and present at local & national conferences

Materials for Bioengineering Research Internships Dedicated to Gateway Experiences (BRIDGE)

  • Focuses on teachers and undergraduates without prior research experience
  • Bring materials and bioengineering research to classroom
  • Teachers from elementary to community college level can apply
  • Opportunities for significant interaction with undergraduates
  • Teachers may return for a second summer to refine module
  • Opportunities to participate in and present at local & national conferences

See the Research Experience Teachers (RET) website for more information, or contact:

Kathryn Hollar
Director of Community Engagement and Diversity Outreach
Email: hollar (at) seas.harvard.edu

RET Workshops - Teacher Outreach

In collaboration with the Harvard Science and Cooking, and with Bite Scized Education, the Harvard MRSEC offers RET Workshops.

More information about the RET Workshops.