Research Experience for Teachers

Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) provides middle and high school teachers with research experiences and ongoing relationships with career scientists, enabling them to share the latest developments in STEM fields with students and inspire their students to learn more about science, math, and engineering and their related career paths. Application by teams of STEM teachers is also encouraged.

Major Activities: 

• Engage in cutting-edge research under the guidance of a faculty mentor for approximately 35 hours per week for six weeks
• Develop strong relationships with researchers and their teams from Iowa State University
• Attend weekly laboratory meetings with the research team
• Spend one day per week focusing solely on their professional learning with other RET program colleagues
• Produce a lesson or unit that will help translate summer learning into activities for use in the classroom
• Participate in 30-minute bi-weekly mentoring sessions via Zoom throughout the school year

Workshop Details: 

Date: June 18 – July 30, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Format: In-person
Credit Offered: Yes
Stipend Offered: $900 per week
Travel and Mileage Stipend Available
On-campus housing provided, if needed
All necessary materials for research and professional learning
Cohort activities and weekly seminars

RET Application Form: COMING SOON!
Registration Deadline: March 1, 2025

For additional information, please contact the Office of Biotechnology using the Contact Us form.

University Non-discrimination Statement
Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 3410 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515 294-7612, Hotline 515-294-1222, email eooffice@iastate.edu

Publicity/Image/Voice Permission
The Office of Biotechnology normally takes photographs, video, and/or tape recordings of our programs.  During these workshops, a photograph or video/audio recording may be taken of you. Unless you request otherwise, your application will be considered permission for Iowa State University and the Office of Biotechnology to photograph, film, audio/video tape, record and/or televise your image and/or voice for use in any publications or promotional materials, in any medium now known or developed in the future without any restrictions.  If you object to ISU using your image or voice in this manner, please notify the Office of Biotechnology, in writing, at the time of your application.