Partners in Science Program

Deepen your scientific research experience with partnered mentorship

Participating in laboratory discovery significantly strengthens teachers’ ability to prepare the next generation of scientists. Through Partners in Science at Oregon State University: Innovative Research Collaboration for Science Teachers and Scientists, an initiative of the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, secondary science teachers spend two consecutive summers working alongside academic researchers at Oregon State University (OSU), contributing to active research projects and experiencing firsthand how science knowledge is built and tested.

Middle and High School teachers who participate in meaningful research can translate their experiences into classroom practices that make scientific inquiry tangible and relevant for students. Hosted by the College of Science and the College of Education at OSU, the program pairs teachers with faculty mentors and provides structured academic-year support as participants integrate research experience into classroom practice.

Questions? Reach out to program contact Jessica Siegel ([email protected]).

The research experience

Summer 2026 dates: June 29 through August 21

Secondary science teachers are invited to apply for the Partners in Science program for the opportunity to engage in scientific research with OSU scientists. This immersive scientific research experience is designed to enhance your teaching in the science classroom.

For eight weeks over two consecutive summers, you’ll work side-by-side with a College of Science faculty mentor, participating in real research that expands your expertise and deepens your experience with the scientific process.Through these lab-based research experiences, you will deepen your understanding of scientific inquiry and gain new strategies to inspire STEM learning.

Partners receive mentorship from science research faculty, personalized support from an experienced Murdock Partners in Science coach and access to high-quality professional development opportunities through annual conferences and regular workshops during the summers provided by the OSU College of Science and College of Education.

Teachers will participate in two Murdock conferences each year to present their research and learn about integrating their research experiences into the classroom. Travel expenses will be covered by the program.

OSU will also provide support for translating research experience into teaching in the classroom throughout the academic year.

Cohort #1 (beginning summer 2026)

Murdock conference dates are:

July 28-31, 2026 in Vancouver, WA
January 15–16, 2027 in Portland, OR.

Full-time research in the lab Monday–Friday from June 29 – August 21

Applications are closed for the summer 2026 cohort. Applications for summer 2027 and 2028 will open in January of 2027.

Eligibility

Pre-service teachers

Currently enrolled in Oregon State University Master of Science in Science Education program or Bachelor of Arts/Science in Secondary Education program with endorsement in biology, chemistry, physics or integrated science
Pursuing licensure in middle or high school STEM teaching

In-service teachers

Three years of experience teaching science at a middle or high school
Teaching at a school listed below

Eligible schools

Albany: West Albany High School, South Albany High School, North Albany Middle School, Calapooia Middle School, Memorial Middle School
Alsea: Alsea Charter School
Corvallis: Corvallis High School, Crescent Valley High School, Linus Pauling Middle School, Cheldelin Middle School
Dayton: Dayton High School, Dayton Junior High School
Eugene: North Eugene High School, Sheldon High School, Spencer Butte Middle School, Arts and Technology Academy
Jefferson: Jefferson High School
Junction City: Junction City High School
Kings Valley: Kings Valley Charter School
Lebanon: Lebanon High School, Seven Oak Middle School
Monroe: Monroe High School
Philomath: Philomath High School
Salem-Keizer: McNary High School, Sprague High School, McKay High School, South Salem High School, North Salem High School, West Salem High School
Scio: Scio High School
Sheridan: Sheridan High School, Faulconer-Chapman School
Silverton: Silverton High School
Springfield: Springfield High School, Thurston High School
Sweet Home: Sweet Home High School

Stipend and benefits

In-service teachers receive a stipend of $6,500 per summer and pre-service teachers receive a stipend of $5,000 per summer.

Partners also receive:

Mileage and travel reimbursement to attend Murdock Partners in Science conferences in January and July/August.
Laboratory supplies budget for summer research
Opportunity to apply for a classroom innovation grant to purchase equipment/supplies to enhance inquiry-based experiences in the classroom
Opportunity to apply for housing and lodging support during summers for longer distance teachers, if needed