Applications for the Scientist-in-Residence program from 2025 through 2026 are open until June 13, 2025.
Why should you become a Scientist-in-Residence?
If you are a graduate student, postdoc or STEM professional and want to make a difference in the lives of students in the NYC area, then this program is for you! We’ll match you with a motivated STEM teacher and together you’ll create a hands-on, research based project for your students to work on throughout the year.
By serving as a role model and an example of a real-world scientist, you can inspire curiosity and excitement about STEM topics, and positively influence the career aspirations of students from underserved communities. Through the program, you’ll receive training and hands-on experience in teaching methods and strategies, and get the chance to develop your own mentorship skills.
Need more incentive? Accepted scientists will also receive a stipend and a yearlong Membership to The New York Academy of Sciences!
Important Dates for 2025 – 2026:
- June 13: Applications deadline (note: all applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and qualified applicants will be contacted for a phone interview)
- July 25: Accepted applicants notified
Mandatory events:
- August 8: Scientist Orientation (virtual; scientists only)
- August 23: Summer Institute Orientation Group 1 (in-person)
- August 24: Summer Institute Orientation Group 2 (in-person)
- October 20: Fall Individual Check-In (virtual)
- November 12, 13, 18, 20: Cluster Sessions (virtual)
- January 27: Winter Institute Group 1 (in-person)
- January 29: Winter Institute Group 2 (in-person)
- March: Spring Pair Check-Ins (virtual)
- May: Student Showcase (in-person, date TBD)
It was exciting for me to see the enthusiasm of students when we first gave them their [laser thermometers]. We spent time on the school roof taking temperatures and learning how to best record data. I think the active nature of this exercise really helped students stay engaged.
—Scientist Participant, SiR 2022-23
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time is involved?
- The program year runs from approximately Sept – May, during which time each SiR team will schedule at least 10 sessions for the scientist to visit the classroom.
- Scientists and teachers will also meet outside of class time to develop their project and teaching as needed.
- Scientists will attend training sessions (both virtual and in-person) in August as well as a planning session in October and January (see timeline above for more details).
- All participants should also plan on attending the End-of-Program Celebration in May.
What are my responsibilities as a Scientist-in-Residence?
- Specific responsibilities will differ depending on the circumstances of each teacher and classroom. At a minimum, scientists will collaborate with the teachers to develop a research project, supervise experiments, and support classroom instruction on project design and implementation, and in creating a final presentation.
- Teams will be asked to submit regular progress reports and check in with the Program Manager as needed.
How much is the scientist stipend and will I be reimbursed for anything else?
- Each SiR team will have a $500 budget for their project materials.
- Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a stipend of $500. Limited travel reimbursements are also available for scientists to support travel to schools.
- All participants will also receive a complimentary Membership to The New York Academy of Sciences.
Note: All participants will be required to complete necessary tax forms prior to receiving a stipend.
Who is eligible to apply?
Qualified Scientists are:
- Graduate students, postdocs, or professionals from STEM disciplines who are interested in improving their pedagogical and communication skills and expanding their teaching experience
- Located within commuting distance of New York City and/or willing to travel within the five boroughs
- Available and committed to attend all trainings and meetings
How do I apply?
- Applications are open from approximately May – June each year.
- Prior to entering schools, all applicants are subject to a background check, administered by the Department of Education and the Department of Health (at no cost to the scientist).
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Contact Us
For more information, contact sir@nyas.org.