In addition to deepening teachers’ knowledge of immunology and scientific research in general, the program seeks to create partnerships between teachers and scientists that will endure beyond the period of the program. Such partnerships are intended to both enhance science instruction in the classroom by providing teachers with access to important resources and information, and increase the understanding and commitment of working scientists to science education. Support is provided for travel and attendance at the laboratory experience, course and meetings. A stipend of $5,000 is provided in two installments at each successfully completed part of the program.

The summer research program is structured as follows.

1. Prior to entry into a research laboratory, teachers attend a three-day immunology course sponsored by the AAI which serves to provide a foundation upon which to base the laboratory experience.

2. Teachers work in a research laboratory of a “mentor” (an AAI member) for four to six weeks during the summer. In some cases this period is structured such that the teachers are primarily learning about the mentor’s research: observing, assisting with lab protocols, conversing with graduate students, and reading about immunology in general and the research underway in particular. In other cases, the teacher may pursue an independent project developed in consultation with the mentor.

3. At the end of the lab experience, teachers develop a curriculum unit designed to introduce students to key immunological concepts through activities and lab protocols. Teachers work in collaboration with curriculum development specialists and curriculum templates to guide the creation of these units. Teachers field test the units in their own classrooms and revise their curriculum units based on their experiences with their own students and specialist review. These units are then made available to interested middle and high school science teachers nationally and internationally, through AAI’s dissemination efforts.

4. During the academic year, teachers prepare and submit an abstract and poster for presentation at the AAI Annual Meeting as well as the National Association of Biology Teachers conference. At the AAI meeting, teachers present their work at a special workshop open to all meeting attendees. Teachers are invited to attend lectures, social events, and other activities at the AAI and NABT conferences. Travel costs and registration are paid for by the AAI.

2008-2009 Program Announcement -- Application Deadline: May 15, 2008

2007-2008 Program Participants