RET Program
Program in Materials and Nanotechnology
The goal of the RET program at Penn State is to provide opportunities to the participating STEM teachers to engage in hands-on research projects with faculty mentors in Materials and Nanotechnology. Better-prepared teachers on science content and the development of hands-on activities will contribute to enhance the quality of STEM instruction.
In addition, teachers work together in the development of lesson plans,
oral and poster presentations, and papers for publication. The RET
participating teachers have the option to request a supplemental grant to
implement activities related to the research experience in their classrooms.
Physics, Materials Science and Engineering and MRSEC faculty and Research Associates and Postdoctoral Scholars are building collaborative relationships between K-12
teachers and the research community, supporting the active participation of
in-service teachers and pre-teachers in research and education projects, and
providing the students of the RET participants with the appropriate content,
skills and career information to influence their future careers and competition
in STEM education.
2012 RET Participating teachers: 
How to Apply for RET Fellowship
Application to the program begins on Monday, December 10, 2013.
Please download the fellowship application form and instructions: 2013 Application form.doc Along with the application form, your application should include:
- Two letters of recommendation, one of which should be from your school principal. These letters may be submitted separately by mail or e-mail
- A current resume
- A student demographic profile (optional)
- A sample of a lesson you have designed and implemented in your classroom
Applications are due Thursday, February 28, 2013. Award notifications will be made on March 15, 2013. The 2013 program dates are June 24 - August 2.