Scientist-in-Residence
A Partnership Between Teachers and Scientists
Studies have continually shown that young people who are exposed to science through active, inquiry-based learning are more likely to pursue a STEM career. And one of the most effective ways to engage students in this type of learning is to give them the opportunity to conduct genuine scientific research with a real scientist!
Created in cooperation with the New York City Department of Education in 2012, the Scientist-in-Residence (SiR) program matches scientists with NYC public school teachers to bring scientific inquiry to life in the classroom. By combining their content and pedagogical expertise, each scientist-teacher pair will develop and implement a year-long project that prepares students to engage in authentic research and spark their interest in STEM learning.
Our Impact
Since our launch, we have paired over 200 teachers and scientists, and impacted 14,000+ students! Check out the map below to see some of the schools where we’ve put a Scientist-in-Residence.
Applications Now Open!
Apply by June 3rd to join SIR's 2022-23 cohort.
Program Sponsors
SiR is possible because of generous support from our program sponsors:
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 2022
- June 3: Applications deadline (note: all applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and qualified applicants will be contacted for a phone interview)
- July 11: Accepted applicants notified
- August 5: Scientist Orientation (2 hours, virtual)
- August 25-26: Summer Institute Orientation (8 hours total, virtual)
- October 22: Fall Planning Session (2 hours, virtual event)
- January 17: Winter Planning Session (2 hours, in-person event)
- May 19: Student Showcase (time and location TBD)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should you become a SiR Host Teacher?
By becoming a Scientist-in-Residence Host Teacher you’ll have the chance to bring a real Scientist into your classroom to help motivate and inspire your students. Together, you and your partner will develop an inquiry-based project that encourages students to think critically using the scientific method, while also expanding your repertoire of replicable STEM lesson plans. Host Teachers in past cohorts have reported higher engagement with their students and the added benefit of updating their curricula to incorporate current scientific topics and methodologies.
Need more incentive? Accepted teachers will also receive a stipend and a yearlong Membership to the New York Academy of Sciences!
Important Dates for 2022
- June 3: Application deadline (note: all applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and qualified applicants will be contacted for a phone interview)
- July 11: Accepted applicants notified
- August 25-26: Summer Institute Orientation (4 hours, virtual)
- October 22: Fall Planning Session (2 hours, virtual event)
- January 17: Winter Planning Session (2 hours, in-person event)
- May 19: Student Showcase (time and location TBD)
Frequently Asked Questions
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