Summer Energy Research for ÐÓ°ÉÔ°æ Science Teachers

Do real energy research. Bring it back to your classroom.
Starting in Summer 2026, ACEP will offer paid, summer research experiences for Anchorage- and Fairbanks-area secondary science teachers (in-service and pre-service). Teachers will work alongside university energy researchers, translate real ÐÓ°ÉÔ°æ energy research into classroom-ready learning, and build professional networks.
Program Snapshot
- Two-year commitment
Two summers, 8 weeks each (between June–August) - $6,500 stipend per summer
- Travel support to attend two Partners in Science conferences
- Up to $3,000 in classroom lab supplies
- Flexible summer schedule to accommodate ÐÓ°ÉÔ°æ plans
What You’ll Do
- Join an authentic energy research project at ACEP with a natural science focus
- Work closely with a UAA or UAF research mentor to develop a two year research plan
- Meet weekly with your research team and mentor
- Attend biweekly ACEP research professional development
- Collaborate with a cohort of in-service and pre-service teachers
- Develop classroom activities and lessons grounded in real research
Mentorship & Support
- Energy Research Mentor (ACEP): Guides your research and content learning
- Murdock Teacher Coach: Supports pedagogy and classroom translation
- Cohort Model: Peer learning and idea-sharing across experience levels
Why Energy in ÐÓ°ÉÔ°æ?
From remote microgrids and extreme climates to innovative technologies and energy equity, energy research in ÐÓ°ÉÔ°æ is interdisciplinary, urgent, and deeply connected to everyday lives.
This program helps teachers build science research practice and context for ÐÓ°ÉÔ°æâ€™s energy systems and translate that into powerful, place-based science learning.
Professional Development
- Strengthen your teaching portfolio with research experience and curriculum products
- Develop a network of university faculty, programs, and funding for your students.
- Opportunity to earn university credit toward continuing education requirements
Who Should Apply?
- Middle & high school science teachers (in-service)
- Pre-service science teachers
- Educators curious about energy, climate, engineering, and ÐÓ°ÉÔ°æ-based research
Locations: University of ÐÓ°ÉÔ°æ Fairbanks (UAF) & University of ÐÓ°ÉÔ°æ Anchorage (UAA)
Applications opening soon
Questions: Annalise Gerlach, Education and Workforce Development Program Lead, asklein@alaska.edu

Annalise Klein Gerlach
Education and Workforce Development Program Lead
University of ÐÓ°ÉÔ°æ Fairbanks

