"Research Experiences for Teachers" Opportunity – Pymatuning Lab of Ecology, Summer 2018
The Richards-Zawacki lab in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh is seeking two motivated middle/junior high school (grades 6 – 9) teachers who want a guided research experience and the opportunity to implement new curriculum to take part in the National Science Foundation's Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) program. The goal of this program is to "enhance the professional development of K-12 science educators through research experience at the emerging frontiers of science in order to bring new knowledge into the classroom". This RET experience will take place at the Pymatuning Lab of Ecology in northwestern Pennsylvania from July 22 – August 4, 2018. Two teachers will be chosen to work with a team of researchers to (1) investigate how climate change impacts the health of amphibian communities, with a specific focus on the role of temperature in shaping susceptibility to disease, and (2) develop a strategy to make the current curricular activities (Ectotherm ER: http://www.rzlab.pitt.edu/?page_id=867), more portable and user-friendly, so that they may be adopted by teachers and schools nationwide. The focus of curricular activities is on climate change impacts on species and ecosystems. Participants will receive a stipend of $2,500 ($1,250/week) to support their participation in the program and participation for the entire two weeks is required. Participants must also agree to pilot the curriculum changes they help design in their classrooms during the 2018-2019 school year. No prior research experience is expected. Travel expenses and room and board at the Pymatuning Lab of Ecology will be provided. To apply, send a cover letter (describing your interest in program and how the experience would benefit you and/or your classroom/school) and resume to Dr. Cori Richards-Zawacki (cori.zawa...@pitt.edu) on or before March 2, 2018. Please direct any questions about the program to Dr. Richards-Zawacki as well.
