RET Program
Apply now for the 2026 Research Experience for Teachers (RET) Program!

RET Program: Summer 2026

The Research Experience for Teachers (RET) Program returns for Summer 2026! This program immerses high school and community college educators in hands-on nanotechnology research and curriculum development at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities campus.

Participants receive a stipend, classroom supplies support, and funding for travel to a RET workshop at Georgia Tech. No prior scientific research experience is required. This program is part of the National Nanotechnology Coordinated Infrastructure (NNCI) network, sponsored by the National Science Foundation.

Program Overview

  • 6 weeks during the summer (June 15th to July 24th, 2026):
    • Lab work at the University collaborating with faculty on research projects
    • Developing a nanoscience-related classroom activity
  • 1 week during the school year:
    • A classroom visit by the RET coordinator
    • Sharing experiences with RET cohorts from Georgia Tech and the University of Nebraska at the Georgia Tech RET Network meeting

RET Program Benefits:

  • $8,000 summer stipend
  • Travel support to Georgia Tech for the RET Network meeting
  • Travel and registration support for presenting at the MnCOSE conference
  • Classroom materials support
  • Hands-on research experience in a nanotechnology lab
  • Mentorship from faculty advisors and graduate students

Participant Requirements:

  • Complete the summer research experience
  • Attend all meetings, workshops, and seminars
  • Adapt and implement a nanoscience-related instructional unit in the classroom
  • Attend the MnSTA Conference

Eligibility
Note: This is a nonresidential program, so participants should be within ~100 miles of the UMN Minneapolis campus.

High School Teacher Applicants:

  • Teach grades 9-12 science or technology
  • Have at least two years of teaching experience

Community/Technical College Faculty Applicants:

  • Teach science or engineering at a two-year institution
  • Have at least two years of teaching experience


Please complete the application by April 17th, 2026. For questions, contact Claire Dietz at [email protected].