Partners in Science Program
The Partners in Science Program provides secondary school science teachers with immersive, mentored summer research experiences at academic institutions to enhance science teaching and foster educator-scientist collaboration.
Funder: M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (Institution grant application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Renewable three-year institutional grants; typical support for 3–4 teacher partnerships/year; total program investment over $12M since 1990.
Summary: Provides secondary school science teachers with immersive, mentored research experiences at academic institutions to enhance science education and professional growth.
Key Information: Annual competition; only institutions may apply directly—teachers apply via selected institutions.
Description
The Partners in Science Program connects secondary school science teachers (both in-service and pre-service) with research mentors at universities and research institutions across the Pacific Northwest. The program provides teachers with authentic, hands-on research experiences over two consecutive summers, aiming to strengthen their scientific knowledge and pedagogical skills. Teachers participate in full-time research, receive support from experienced coaches, and attend annual conferences focused on translating research into classroom practice. The ultimate goal is to invigorate science teaching, foster inquiry-based learning, and build lasting collaborations between K–12 educators and academic scientists.
